What a delightful week with the January thaw, the warmer temperatures coupled with the longer days has my thoughts turning to spring and renewal. It's uplifting to the soul to have the evidence that spring will come.
Of course we are already planning for spring, but first we have to get through the rest of winter and execute all the plans we made for the winter. I've a laundry list of events and classes that we set up based on polls that need people to sign up to run. These are for children who are Autism Division eligible.
Music and Movement with Janice Kenyon and Liz Johnson Children's Room, Leominster Library 30 West Street , Leominster MA Children: preschool- Grade 3 Dates January 10, 17, 24, 31st February 7, 14, 28, March 7, 14, 21, 28th, April 4th Time: 4:14-5:15 PM Cost:$60.00 (limited to 8 Participants)( Has room for 3 more kids)
Sensory Clinic with Kid's OT Integrity Cheer 3 Boulder Parkway. N. Oxford MA Dates: March 2, 16, 23rd, April 6, 20, 27th May 4th and 18th 3- 4 PM Children 3-14 (10 pairs) Has room for 4 more pairs
* This Gym has a Clean Sneaker policy- Participants must wear shoes & change into clean sneakers in the Gym Cost: $40.00
Creative Therapeutic Art with Pam Murphy BA Location: Artist Palette Fine Art Studio 70 Douglas Road Whitinsville, MA 01588 Children 3-10 ( limited to 4 children)Dates & Time: January 18, 25, Feb 1, 8, and March 1, 8th 3:15-4 PM Has room for 2 more participants
Children 11-18 ( limited to four children) Dates & Time :January 19, 26, Feb 2, 9, and March 2, 9th 9 AM- 10 AM Cost: $30.00 Cancelled due to no enrollment
Sensory Clinic with Amy Smith COTA at Sensibility Gym 8 Charlesview Place unit 4 Hopedale Ma Dates: Sundays February 3,10,17,24th March 3,17th, April 7 & 14th Children 3-9 2-3 PM Children 10-18 3-4 PM Cost $40.00 Has room for 13 more kids
Swim & Safety Classes with Luanne Tribastone Location: Paxton Sports Center 603 Pleasant St. Paxton Dates: Jan 20, 27, Feb 3, 10th 3-4 PM Cost: $20.00 Has room for 1 more participant
This program has limited enrollment and requires parent participation, the focus will be on drown proofing and teaching children to float on their backs, Parent & child pairs will spend 1 hour in the water with 1:1 instruction from Luanne, for 1/2 hour then skill practice .
NOW is the time to think about extended school year programs. 1 Hour IEP Clinics with Elaine Rabbitt Meet with Advocate Elaine Rabbitt to discuss your child's IEP , concerns and needs and how best to advocate for changes with your school. Only 2 appointments have been taken
February 7, 2013
10AM, 11AM, 12:30PM, 1:30 PM, 2:30PM
Seven Hills Family Support Center 1460 John Fitch Highway, Fitchburg MA
February 14, 2013
10AM, 11AM, 12:30PM, 1:30 PM, 2:30PM
Seven Hills Family Support Center 128 Main St, Sturbridge MA
February 28, 2013
10AM, 11AM, 12:30PM, 1:30 PM, 2:30PM
Autism Resource Center
Our Implementing a Verbal Behavior Program Class is scheduled to begin in a few weeks and currently only has 3 parents enrolled. This is a chance for those who have children who struggle with communication to learn how to support their language development and effect change in their child's life.
A few notes on the more popular programs. The Autism Friendly performance of ANNIE scheduled for this Saturday is fully subscribed and we have no extra tickets available, last time we spoke with Open Door Theater there were 11 seats left, and that was last week.
Camp Havvago registration for children aged 7-16 opens today, and will be taken on a first come, first served basis. A wait list will be established in the event that the first 37 applicants does not produce a full compliment of campers. An application is NOT a guarantee of acceptance.
Additionally we still have funding for Social Skills Groups - the application can be found in the winter newsletter on page 4 and there is a link to that newsletter in this update.
In the next few months we will be rolling out some programs to encourage inclusion in the community for kids with ASD. I had a wonderful meeting earlier this week with Jen Keaney, who is a member of our walk committee, but also the Director of Family Programming at the Greendale YMCA. The Autism Resource Center , through a grant form the Department of Developmental Services Children's division will offer 10 scholarships to the Greendale Y for individuals with ASD who are DDS eligible, which will run for 5 months, February through the end of June. Children who qualify may be accompanied by 1 parent or 1:1 aide. Access to some of the program areas for children under the age of 13 will require the person accompanying the child to have a CORI & SORI check done, which would take 24 hours. This is to protect all the children. Children 13 and up who receive memberships will be able access the full gym and all it's amenities. Those who are under 13 will have access to children's gym, and programs for children at the YMCA. The one aspect of the membership not open would be the child care center, the membership is a CHILD/Teen Membership.
Staff at the Greendale YMCA will be trained by staff from the Autism Resource Center and we will collaborate to create visuals for the YMCA that will make the experience for individuals on the spectrum more successful. The Greendale YMCA has reciprocity with the Central YMCA in Worcester, the TriBorough YMCA in Shrewsbury/Northboro and Montachusett YMCA in Fitchburg. The Resource Center will be reaching out to those YMCA's to offer training and supports as well.
The use of a YMCA allows more flexibility for families in hours and access, but we will also be working with some other programs such as Martial arts and dance in the next few months to improve the understanding of Autism Spectrum Disorders and the inclusion of children on the spectrum in classes with their peers.
To apply on your child's behalf for a Y scholarship please use the form below, which you can copy and paste into a word document and mail to the Autism Resource Center. Please do not call or e-mail forms.
Mail to: Autism Resource Center, 71 Sterling St, West Boylston MA 01583
Stay tuned for more community scholarships, we're scheduling meetings with other providers as well in the next few weeks .
You know the line from Field of Dreams " If you build it he will come" ? We've built it, are you coming? Hope to hear from you soon.
Sue
It's a FUNdraiser !
We're hoping everyone will jump on board and purchase tickets to an evening out at the Worcester Sharks, which will benefit YOUR center. February 23, 2012 is Autism Resource Center Night at the Worcester Sharks. We've tickets at a discounted price which would make for an enjoyable evening this winter for your friends and family. The game will help cure the cabin fever we all suffer from by mid February and is appropriate for all ages!
January 16, 2013 Family Fun for Teens Pizza & Movie 6 PM
January 19, 2013 ANNIE An Autism Friendly Production Open Door Theater R J Grey Junior High School 17 Charter St Acton Ma 12 Noon Cost:$5.00 /family
January 21, 2013 CENTER CLOSED
January 23, 2013 Accessing Public Supports Workshop 7-9 PM
January 30, 2013 Social Group for older Teens (16 and older) and Young Adults Facilitated by Deb Gonzalez 7-9 PM ( limited to 12 participants)
Support Group for Parents of Teens and Young Adults Options for the Future: Adult Family Care and Shared Living
Presented by HMEA's David Placido 7-9 PM
FEBRUARY
February 6, 2013
Asperger/ High Functioning Autism Support Group
7-9 PM
February 9, 2013
Sibshop THEME: Chinese New Year
10AM- 2 PM
Cost: $10.00/child $15.00 family cap
February 11, 2013
Parent's Network Brunch
10 AM-12 Noon
Moms & Tots Group
4:30- 6 PM
February 13, 2013
Accessing Public Supports
10AM -12 PM
Support Group for Parents
of Children on the Spectrum
7-9 PM
February 18, 2013
CENTER CLOSED
February 19, 2013
Friends and Family Movie
West Boylston Cinema
10AM Cost $5.00/family
Teen Lock In
Girls Inc.
125 Providence St Worcester Ma
6-9:30 PM
Swim 6:30- 8:30 Gym all night
Pizza 9 PM Cost $5.00/family * Parent Support Group runs concurrently
February 20, 2013
Glow Golf
Solomon Pond Mall
Donald Lynch Blvd Marlboro
9 AM Cost $5.00/family
February 21, 2013
Bouncing Around
for children under 12 at
Zoinks
10:15 AM
Pioneer Corporate Park
7 Pioneer Dr
North Oxford MA
Cost $5.00/family
Jump & Play
10:30 AM
486 Chestnut St
Gardner Ma
Cost $5.00/Family
Pump It Up
10:45 AM
810 Boston Turnpike Rd
Shrewsbury Ma
Cost $5.00/Family
February 21, 2013
ZOINKS
Teen Challenge for Kids 13 - 18
10 :30 AM
Pioneer Corporate Park
7 Pioneer Dr
North Oxford MA
Cost $5.00/Family
February 22, 2013
Snow Shoe /Winter Hike at
Broadmeadow Brook Audubon Sanctuary
414 Massasoit Rd Worcester Ma
1 PM Cost $5.00/Family
February 23, 2013
Autism Resource Center Night at The Worcester Sharks
7 PM Tickets $15.00/PP
February 27, 2013
Social Group for older Teens
(16 and older) and Young Adults
Facilitated by Deb Gonzalez
7-9 PM ( limited to 12 participants)
Support Group for Parents of Teens and Young Adults
Topic: Puberty, Sex and Sexuality
7-9 PM
PHOTO RELEASE
We're still seeking adorable pictures for our website please copy and paste the release below and send a jpeg of your child to sloring@hmea.org so we can put a face on Autism!
AUTHORIZATION FOR CONSENT TO USE PHOTOGRAPH
I, _________________________________________________, the parent/ guardian of
___________________________________________________, agree to give consent for
his/ her/ my (please circle) photograph to be published by The Autism Resource Center of Central Massachusetts . I understand his/ her /my (please circle)
picture is being used for the following reason:
________Use on Website,_______________________________________________
Autism, Breast Cancer, and the Changing Miss America Pageant
The 92-year-old competition has struggled to reclaim its significance, but enthusiasm for a handful of inspiring contestants-one with autism, another bravely taking on breast cancer-proves that the pageant is far from dead, writes Kevin Fallon. read more
Scientists say talking to baby stops ADHD
exclusive By Judith Duffy
IT really is good to talk, it seems.
Every parent knows they should feel guilty about using those electronic babysitters - the TV and computer - but now Scottish scientists have established just how important verbal communication is between mothers and their babies. read more
JOB INTERNSHIP PROGRAM
JOB INTERNSHIP PROGRAM for young adults ages 18-30 on the AUTISM SPECTRUM offered at the Massachusetts General Hospital's Aspire Program.
Internships are at established companies in the Boston area. 9-week or 17-week placements with pre-internship preparation
This is an opportunity to refer students or graduates with Asperger's syndrome and related challenges: The program's goals are to:
Offer interns work that is interesting and useful, where they apply job related skills that will help them to be prepared for future employment. Help participants learn the social aspects or "soft skills" needed to succeed in the workplace. Provide a Job Coach for on-site support and weekly off-site training and peer meetings to ensure interns have a successful experience.
First internships starting at the end of January. Sites are at established companies in the Boston area including three placements at Mass General Hospital's finance and facilities management depts. Internship Program
FREE Roger A. Bauman Parent Lecture Series Topic: Psychopharmacology of Autism Spectrum Disorders
Speaker: Christopher McDougle, MD Director of the Lurie Center for Autism
Thursday, January 17, 2013 6:30 - 8:30 PM
Where: Charles River Center, Needham, MA * 59 East Militia Heights Road (located at the top of Dwight Road off Central Street) * Paul D. Merritt Building, basement conference room * www.charlesrivercenter.org
Cost: Free but registration required!
Registration: To register, please contact: Julie O'Brien, MEd, LMHC Family Support Clinician, Lurie Center Phone: 781.860.1726 Email: jobrien20@partners.org The annual Roger A. Bauman Lecture Series was established in 2007 in memory of Dr. Roger Bauman, former president of FOL and the husband of Margaret L. Bauman, founder of LADDERS. We also gratefully acknowledge the support of Friends of Lurie (FOL), the Charles River Center, and the Doug Flutie Jr. Foundation for Autism.
The Medway SEPAC Presents
"What the Dracut decision taught us about the Importance of Social Skills and Language Pragmatics in an IEP".
This discussion and presentation will be held January 22, 2013 at 7:00 pm at the Medway High School Auditorium. This venue seats well over 400 people. This is a free and open presentation for any parent or caregivers who have children with social skills and pragmatic deficits in Massachusetts.
A Full Life AHEAD
Massachusetts Families Organizing for Change (MFOFC), in partnership with Massachusetts Down Syndrome Congress (MDSC), will host a series of monthly workshops for parents and guardians of young adults with a disability. The series will focus on transition, employment, housing and other topics that will help to give them interdependent full lives in their community.
Please join us for our first workshop on
Wednesday, January 30, 2013
"Planning for Life after Special Education
in Massachusetts"
7:00 - 9:00 PM
MDSC Office
20 Burlington Mall Road -- Suite 261
Burlington, MA 01803
Pamela Coveney Senior Attorney, Co-Team Leader of the Disability Law Center (DLC) Education Team, will discuss the several substantial topics included in the latest edition of "Planning for Life after Special Education in Massachusetts". Read and download this free manual by clicking here
This workshop will identify specific suggestions on how to develop comprehensive post-secondary vision statements, IEPs and transition plans, developing appropriate transition services for students, knowing various diploma options, best practices for family involvement and more.
Please RSVP to snadworny@riversidecc.org
FREE Autism Parent Education Sessions
The New England Center for Children (NECC) is offering a series of informational sessions for family members of children with autism. The presentations include topics of interest and importance seeking to help families to better understand, advocate, and care for children with ASD and their families as a whole. In addition to the formal presentation, each session will have time allocated for questions and answers.
All sessions are FREE and open to the public. Pre-registration is encouraged as space is limited.
All trainings will be held at: The New England Center for Children 33 Turnpike Road Southborough, MA 01772 508-481-1015
Supporting Siblings of Children with ASD Date: Thursday, February 7, 2013 Time: 7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. Presenter: Richard W. Martin, LICSW, Kyla McHaffie, M.S., BCBA, Rebecca Shulman, BA
Siblings deal with a wide range of social and emotional experiences and play a variety of roles as they grow up in families of children with autism. This presentation will explore sibling issues at various stages of development. Presenters will engage with participants to discuss strategies that can help siblings adjust to their unique journey.
Preventing and Reducing Challenging Behavior Presenter: Bill Holcomb, Ph.D., BCBA-D Date: Saturday, March 9, 2013
This is a two-part training, individuals are welcome to register for one or both parts of the training.
Part 1: Pro-Active Strategies for Managing Challenging Behavior Time: 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. This interactive training teaches a variety of de-escalation and prevention strategies of challenging behavior. Real-life situations will be discussed, and participants are encouraged to participate with their own examples and questions.
Part 2: De-Escalation of Challenging Behavior Time: 1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. This interactive training will address assessment and intervention of challenging behavior. The focus will be on defining, assessing, and creating a function-based treatment for challenging behavior. Common assessment techniques will be reviewed and participants will have the opportunity to practice the use of some of the assessments.
*Lunch will be provided between sessions on this day.
How to Make Good Decisions About the Use of Psychotropic Medication Date: Friday, March 22, 2013 Time: 9:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. Presenter: Jason Bourret, Ph.D., BCBA-D
Increasing numbers of children diagnosed with autism are prescribed medication to treat problem behavior but these meds are not guaranteed to work and may cause serious side effects. Deciding whether or not to use medication, which medications to use, and what doses are appropriate can be difficult and parents should be as informed as possible when working with a psychiatrist. In this presentation, tips for working with psychiatrists, ways to measure medication effects, and guidelines for making decisions about medication will be discussed.
OT, PT, APE, SI, ABA: Taking the Mystery Out of All These Acronyms! Date: Thursday, April 11, 2013 Time: 7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. Presenter: Kristen Sidman, M.Ed., M.S., OTR/L
This presentation will include information on the types of services Occupational Therapists and Physical Therapists provide to children with ASD. We will touch upon typical goal areas, direct vs. indirect models of service delivery and how to incorporate sensory practice in a behavioral model.
iPads at Home: More Apps for Children with ASD
Date: Friday, May 10, 2013
Time: 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Presenter: Beth Bellone, M.S., CCC-SLP, BCBA
Apps provide leisure opportunities and independence for children with ASD, but what about communication? time management? organization? This talk will review a handful of the many apps out there dedicated specifically to helping children with ASD cope with their environment and schedule. Bring your own iPad or we will supply you with one to use. We will highlight TouchChat, Visual Schedule Planner and a few more apps that provide great tools to help your child.
To register for any of these sessions:
Click here for our online registration form: [ http://www.necc.org/Consultation/Training-and-Workshops/Training-at-NECC/Parent-Training-Series-20122013/Parent-Training-Series-Registration.aspx ]http://www.necc.org/Consultation/Training-and-Workshops/Training-at-NECC/Parent-Training-Series-20122013/Parent-Training-Series-Registration.aspx
All trainings will be held at:
The New England Center for Children
33 Turnpike Road
Southborough, MA 01772
508-481-1015
For more information or to be added to our email list please contact:
Megan Anzivino
Administrative Coordinator
The New England Center for Children
508-481-1015 x4030
LEOMINSTER PARENTS TAKE NOTE!
I think you might be excited to hear about an opportunity for afterschool programming. LUK was awarded a grant from DESE to provide a 8 session, 1 day per week inclusion afterschool program for youth ages 10-15 who are Leominster Public School students. The Program will have 12 slots, and the focus is adventure-based experiential learning programming for youth with ASD and typically developing youth. English learners are encouraged to come on board as well! Empathy, acceptance, pro-social relating, healthy living and youth development are a few of the goals of this type of program. We will have a winter and spring cycle, each 8 sessions with a overnight experience at the end. The program will be offered on Wednesdays. Please share this with those who may be eligible. We are hoping to start very soon. If you are interested please contact TREK staff:
Melissa Murphy 508-962-1071 Brian Matheson 978-401-5244
There is no charge for programming. Transportation, activity fees, snacks/drinks and gear are provided.
President's Distinguished Lecture Series event
Framingham State University Wednesday, February 13, 2013.
Dan Habib, Filmmaker in Residence at the Institute on Disability at the University of New Hampshire, will join us at Framingham State University to screen two of his films about inclusion and disability. Habib will screen each film and will facilitate a discussion with the audience after each. Each film is approximately one hour long.
Including Samuel, 4 PM www.includingsamuel.com This film honestly chronicles the Habib family's efforts to include his son Samuel in every facet of their lives and in his elementary school.
Who Cares About Kelsey?, 7 PM www.whocaresaboutkelsey.com This film will make viewers reconsider the "problem kids" in their own high schools and spark new conversations about an education revolution that's about empowering-not overpowering-our most emotionally and behaviorally challenged youth
Both screenings are free and open to the public. They will be held in the Forum in the McCarthy Center on the Framingham State University campus. If you would like to attend one or both film screenings, I invite you to RSVP using the link below.
Beyond Duct Tape and Velcro - Making, Mounting and Modifying Assistive Technology Solutions in Minutes Presented by Dr. Therese Willkomm The ability to create solutions in minutes using everyday tools and materials will always be needed. For example, while the iPad is a wonderful device, individuals with physical, cognitive, or sensory impairments still struggle with full access to this new technology and can benefit from quick solutions. This amazing workshop discusses and demonstrates over 50 different materials that can be used to create hundreds of solutions such as adapting an iPad, a computer, switches, workstations, tools, educational environments, and independent living aids. This workshop will provide participants with an overview of 42 new and amazing fabrications materials and tools that do not require electricity to use. This includes 10 different kinds of plastics; creative uses for 12 different specialty tapes; 12 small hand tools that all fit in a lunch box; six amazing new fasteners that can be used in amazing new ways and two different types of foams. Learning Objectives: Participants will be able to:
Identify and describe over 30 solutions that can be fabricated in under five minutes Identify and describe at least 20 different tools and materials that can be used to fabrication solutions in minutes. Identify at least five resources for finding various fabrication tools and material in local communities. About Dr. Therese Willkomm Dr. Therese Willkomm the Director of New Hampshire's State Assistive Technology Program with the Institute on Disability at the University of New Hampshire and an Assistant Professor in the Department of Occupational Therapy. She holds a Ph.D. in Rehabilitation Technology from the University of Pittsburgh and has over 25 years experience in providing/managing assistive technology services. She is known nationally and internationally as "The McGyver" of Assistive Technology. And more recently as an expert in Apps for Disabilities and iPAD Modifications. Dr. Willkomm has presented in 38 states, five foreign countries, and three U.S. Territories and authored 22 publications including her most recent book titled "Make A Difference Today - Assistive Technology Solutions in Minutes.
Registration is $125 and includes lunch. Register by clicking here or by calling (401)463-0202
Location
This event is taking place at TechACCESS of RI 110 Jefferson Blvd Warwick, RI 02888 (401)463-0202
Asperger's Association of New England
in Partnership with MGH Aspire
presents
Asperger Syndrome and Technology:
Pitfalls and Potentials
March 15, 2013
Hebrew College ~ Newton Centre, MA
Keynote Speakers:
Christopher Mulligan, LCSW
President and Clinical Director
The Cyber Addiction Recovery Center
Karen Waddill, MA, CCC-SLP ATP
Director of Cotting Consulting
Cotting School, Lexington, MA
The use of technology has had a major impact in the lives of those with Asperger Syndrome (AS) and related conditions. This conference will explore both the potential difficulties that the use of technology can present as well as the positive social and educational benefits. Specific interventions for assisting those who over-use technology and specific applications in technology that have benefitted others will be discussed. You will hear from experts in the field as well as from consumers. Pitfalls will be discussed in the morning and potentials will be discussed in the afternoon. This conference is appropriate for professionals, parents, and adults with AS/related conditions.
Conference Fees, per person:
$85 Non-professional $100 Professional
Advance registration with payment is required by March 7th or until seats sell out
Apply today for an Autism Speaks / Advocates for Autism Massachusetts Specialty License Plate!
A portion of every plate sold and renewed will go to Autism Speaks and Advocates for Autism Massachusetts!
Once we reach 3,000 paid applications the MA Registry of Motor Vehicles will then start the process of distributing our Autism Speaks / AFAM Specialty License Plate. Sign up today! To learn more or to get involved with the campaign, please email greaterboston@autismspeaks.org www.autismspeaks.org | www.afamaction.org
The Lurie Center Expands Research Opportunities The Lurie Center of Massachusetts General Hospital, a Lexington based clinical care and research center of the Lurie Center for Autism, offers children and adults with autism spectrum disorders an opportunity to participate in clinical research that provides new and promising treatment options. For more information regarding current research at the Lurie Center please email LurieCenterResearch@partners.org, call (781) 860-1711, or visit the website: www.LurieCenter.org or research page.
Targeted Pharmacological Interventions for Autism: A Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Study of Atomoxetine in Children and Adolescents with Autism
The Massachusetts General Hospital for Children at the Lurie Center is conducting a research study for children and adolescents ages 5-15 who have autistic disorder, Asperger's disorder, or pervasive developmental disorder, not otherwise specified and who also have symptoms such as: overactivity, impulsivity, and/or inattention. The study involves a non-stimulant medication and clinic visits at no charge. If you would like to find out more about this research study at the Lurie Center, please contact us at (781) 860-1711 or LurieCenterResearch@partners.org. Institution - MGH - Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA; Lurie Center, Lexington, MA. Principle Investigator: Christopher J McDougle, MD
Guanfacine and Methylphenidate in the Treatment of Hyperactivity in Children with Pervasive Developmental Disorder
The Massachusetts General Hospital for Children at the Lurie Center is conducting a Research Study for children 5-14 years old who have Pervasive Developmental Disorders (autism, Asperger' disorder, or PDD-NOS). If your 5-14 year old has autism, Asperger' disorder, or PDD-NOS, he or she may qualify for a research study involving study medication and clinic visits with a child psychiatrist and qualified research staff at no charge. The purpose of this study is to find out if the medication, extended release guanfacine, is helpful for the treatment of hyperactivity and impulsiveness in children. Participation requirements and risks involved in this study will be disclosed prior to study enrollment. If you are interested in participating or would like more information, please contact us at (781) 860-1700 or LurieCenterResearch@partners.org. Institution - MGH - Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA; Lurie Center, Lexington, MA. Principle Investigator: Christopher J McDougle, MD
Pervasive Developmental Disorders Research Study
The Massachusetts General Hospital for Children at the Lurie Center is conducting a study designed to evaluate the effects of mirtazapine in children with Pervasive Developmental Disorders (PDDs). Participants must be children between the ages of 5 and 17 with autistic disorder, Asperger's disorder or PDD not otherwise specified, as well as difficulties with anxiety. Participants must have no significant medical illness and not have had a previous adequate trial of mirtazapine. Participants will receive study medication and all study related evaluations at no charge. For additional information about study requirements and study procedures, please contact Dr. Christopher McDougle's study staff at 781-860-1711 or LurieCenterResearch@partners.org.
UMass Medical School Child and Adolescent Neuro Development Initiative
Study Seeking Boys ages 13-17 with an IQ over 70 with ASD and Typically Developing Boys for a Study on Brain Imaging EXPANDING!
I received an update from Dr David Cochran at UMass in regard to this study and I am excited to share with you this update and that the Study is being expanded and so is in need of subjects as described above. From Dr Cochran
"
The preliminary data for this study was presented at both the Autism Consortium meeting in Boston, and the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry meeting in San Francisco. There was a great deal of enthusiasm about the findings of differences in glutamate and GABA systems (primary neurotransmitters in the brain) in the adolescents with autism spectrum disorders. This work has far-reaching implications, and is also being explored as potentially informing the development of new treatments for Autism Spectrum Disorders.
Given the impact of the preliminary data, we are extending the study to try to recruit a larger number of subjects, both in the Autism Spectrum Disorder group and the Typically Developing group. So we'd like to ask you again to get the word out that we are still recruiting, and would love to get more adolescent males (age 13-17) to help move this research forward. Feel free to pass along the excitement that has been generated by this study to date."
Participants will be compensated for time and travel
Please click here for a brochure and more information
Joyful Learning: Using Active and Collaborative Structures to Differentiate Instruction for Students with ASD & Related Disabilities
Too often a "one-size-fits-all" approach is used to design lessons leaving some learners struggling to participate and leaving teachers feeling they have not reached all of their students. In this interactive session, participants will apply principles of differentiation by exploring a number of collaborative, active, and brain-compatible learning techniques aimed at engaging students and making learning joyful. This session is appropriate for educators in K-12 classrooms as well as parents and others working with children with disabilities and is structured for participants to experience these active techniques through demonstrations.
Paula Kluth, Ph.D. is a consultant, teacher, author, advocate, and independent scholar who works with teachers and families to provide inclusive opportunities for students with disabilities and to create more responsive and engaging schooling experiences for all learners. Paula is a former special educator who has served as a classroom teacher and inclusion facilitator. Her professional interests include differentiating instruction and inclusive schooling. She is the author or co-author of nine books including; You're Going to Love this Kid: Teaching Students with Autism in Inclusive Classrooms and A Land We Can Share: Teaching Literacy to Students with Autism. Paula is also a director of a documentary film titles "We Thought You'd Never Ask": Voices of People with Autism.
FRIDAY, MARCH 22
Justin Canha, Person with Autism
Maria Teresa Canha, Parent and Autism Advocate
Nicole Turon-Diaz, M.A>, Ed.?SpEd., Learning By Design, LLC
A Young Man with Autism's transition to Adult Life: How Talent, Perseverance, Advocacy and Training Carve the Path to Independence
Justin Canha showed a passion for drawing early in his life. His parents were instrumental in giving him as many opportunities as possible to develop his talent and ability. He is now a renowned artist. His mother, Maria Teresa Canha has been advocating for him since his diagnosis at 31/2. Justin, now 22, in on the threshold of entering into the adult world and independence. NicoleTuron-Diaz, M.A, owns Learning By Design, LLC. She is a Certified College Coach for individuals with ASD and has been working with individuals on the spectrum for last decade.
Lindsey Biel, M.A., OTR/L
Sensory Smart Strategies for Students with ASD
The sensory issues experienced by most people with ASD can make everyday function difficult and even painful. Lindsey will demystify these sensory issues and provide real-life techniques you can use immediately to make school and other environments more tolerable. She will share practical strategies for challenges such as oversensitivity to sound, touch, lighting and other sensory input plus simple environmental modifications and "sensory diet" activities that can help students stay tuned in all day long.
Lindsey Biel, M.A., OTR/L is co-author of the award-winning Raising a Sensory Smart Child: The Definitive Handbook for Helping Your Child with Sensory Processing Issues, foreword by temple Grandin. She is an occupational therapist based in NYC where she evaluates and treats children and adolescents with sensory processing issues, autism spectrum disorders, and other challenges. Please visit www.sensorysmarts.com
The Autism Resource Center does not endorse any treatments, programs or products. Articles, announcements and resources are provided for information purposes only.
