| Our Hours |
Monday 9 AM - 9 PM
Tuesday 9AM - 5 PM
Wednesday 9 AM - 9 PM
Thursday 9 AM - 9 PM
Friday 9 AM -3 PM |
2013 Autism Resource Center of Central Masschusett's 5K & walk for Autism Awareness
SPONSORS | |
Presenting Sponsor
Pavilion Sponsor
DCU for Kids Foundation |
| 2012 Tee Up for Autism SPONSORS & DONORS | |
UniBank
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Join Our List
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LAST CALL FOR TICKETS FOR
Autism Resource Center Family Night at the Worcester Sharks !
Learn How YOU can bid on the Specialty Jerseys!
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I've Good News and Bad News- The Good News is we still have plenty of tickets for the February 23rd Autism Resource Center Family Night at the Worcester Sharks - The Bad News is we still have plenty of tickets for the February 23rd Autism Resource Center Family Night at the Worcester Sharks ! Want to see these jerseys in action? We still have tickets available for the game on February 23. Contact Cid at 508-298-1610 to purchase tickets or click here. At this point if you order tickets, you will need to pick up at the Center or at the will call widow at the DCU Center.
Like the Shirt Below? You can bid on a shirt on Ebay about a week AFTER the Game, we'll let you all know when this is happening.
Coming to the Game? You'll have two chances to bid.
A silent auction that will happen through puck drop of the 3rd period.
After the game is a LIVE auction after the players have a chance to get off the ice and the crowd to clear, If you want to be part of this you MAY want to think about coming in two cars, if your kids are prone to melt down when tired. Fan Favorites will be up to chat with the auctioneer and autograph their shirts, an auction will then be held and if you win the player will literally give you the shirt off his back to take home!
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What are you waiting for? This is going to be the "Cure for Cabin Fever" and a great way to support YOUR center after a week of Family Fun Activities. Proceeds from this night will provide more family fun events and programs for your family! It's time to purchase your tickets to an evening out at the Worcester Sharks, which will benefit YOUR center. We've tickets at a discounted price which would make for an enjoyable evening this winter for your friends and family. The Saturday night event means that Dad's can be part of the vacation fun and this special night will be one your kids will remember and is appropriate for all ages! Deadline extended to Friday February 22nd We'll be closing at 3 PM -But you can come by and purchase tickets to go from the Center up until then. Please share with family and friends.
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Weekly Update
February 20, 2013
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Greetings!
It's a vacation week. Hope you all find time this week to read emails, if you skipped right past the Sharks info above but want to get in on the Specialty Jerseys scroll up and read as there are ways to participate without attending the game. We'll be seeing many of you over the next few days and as usual look forward to spending time with all the kids. If you missed out registering for some and want an activity for the family you can still buy tickets to the Hockey game .If you waited for the last minute we've still just a little under 130 tickets to sell to break even on this event.
Once we get past the Sharks game we'll begin focusing in earnest on this year's walk. I set my page up a few weeks ago and can say I enjoyed the first few weeks being the # 1 fundraiser, but was abruptly ousted from that distinction when Matt Hicks started his fundraising effort. Well I may NOT be the #1 fundraiser anymore but I AM the 1st to reach my goal, having raised $2113.00, I'm $100 over my goal. I'll still be nagging friends and family for their support, there has never been a more critical need. Have you set up your page yet? This is our #1 fundraising event and we rely upon the walk funds to provide activities, educational programs, camps, and more for your family.
In the next few weeks I'll be posting each week on Facebook activities that the walk funds so check that out and use the factoids when you send out your requests to family and friends. Remembering back a few years ago Cheryl Chan posted on Facebook and Twitter "Give me $10.00 and I'll turn it in to camp for 200 kids with autism and their siblings" This garnered over $5,000.00 in donations. People like to know their donation will be put to good use. When people donate to the Center they can be assured that their dollars are staying here in Central Massachusetts to benefit families who are challenged with all that autism can entail.
I usually send out my first "ask" through Firstgiving using my e-mail list and sit back and wait a few days, generally there are people who immediately respond. A week later I resend, thanking folks a second time who donated and reminding folks if they were meaning to donate and forgot there is no time like the present. A running series of THANKS posts on Facebook and Twitter, each time someone donates allows me another way to thank those who've been generous and by including a link to my page, allows others another way to make their donation. YES I am pretty obnoxious about it, but this is a cause I truly believe in and I KNOW does not go to high salaries, corporate jets or parties. (Unless you want to count the New Years Eve Eve Dinner dance) It's for OUR kids, what better cause is there?
After two years of meeting, discussions, and prioritizing, a writing group of volunteers within the Autism Commission has distilled all that work into a document. I have had the privilege of working with some of the best minds in the autism community and state in serving on the Commission. The report, I hope will drive the future efforts of the Commonwealth to meet the needs of our children. I have shared the legislative priorities of the Commission,which was just the tip of the vision the commission will put forth. The full report will be released on March 27, 2013 at Gardner Auditorium at the Statehouse and will be posted on line for everyone in the community to read. There is much work ahead of us to see the vision realized and more than ever it is imperative that we all educate and advocate with our legislators. We're planning a local legislative evening and April 11, 2013 will be Autism Awareness and Acceptance Day at the Statehouse. Parents are always challenged to arrive on time for the event in Boston and to get home in time to meet the bus, but with advance planning this can be done, so start making plans now to join us and give a voice to our concerns and needs.
Spring will soon be upon us, Conferences are being planned, including one we are working on with The Kennedy Donovan Family Support Center, and for those facing transition to adulthood another Creating a Vision Workshop is planned for April, NOT to be missed. See below for details on these conferences and more.
Have a great week everyone!
Sue
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Autism Resource Center of Central Massachusetts'
5K Run and Walk for Autism Awareness
presented by
Autism Intervention Specialists
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Register to fundraise for the 5K or Walk at firstgiving.com!
The Autism Resource Center of Central Massachusetts' 5K & Walk for Autism Awareness presented by Autism Intervention Specialists is the signature fundraising event for the Autism Resource Center. We are able to provide programs, services and events at little to no cost for over 2,600 families as a result of the monies that are raised from these events. Please help the Autism Resource Center continue to support our families by registering for the 5K or Walk.
Sunday, April 28, 2013
Run Registration: 8:30AM-9:30AM
Run Start: 10:00AM
Walk Registration: 12:00PM
Walk Start: 1:00PM
If you are interested in running, walking, forming a team, donating, or just learning more, please visit the event registration pages
Click here to register as a RUNNER
or
Click here to register as a WALKER
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Autism Resource Center Calendar
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You may register for events by clicking here
 FEBRUARY
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
February 28, 2013 Grupo de Apoyo Centro las Americas 11 Sycamore St Worcester Ma 10-12 N
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Autism Division Funded Programs through the Center
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Social Skills Funding
IEP, ADL and Visual Clinics
Clinics are provided for parents of Autism Division Eligible Children under the age of 18 . IEP, ADL and Visuals Clinics are by appointment Individual Visual & ADL Clinics are booked upon request . Please call Kathy at 508-298-1609 to schedule an appointment for all Clinics
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
February 28, 2013
10AM, 11AM, 12:30PM, 1:30 PM, 2:30PM
Autism Resource Center
Additionally parents may drop by the Center at any time during the hours we are open to access the Boardmaker Program Žand material to create visuals. Printing and laminating are provided without charge. For a small fee the Center stocks other materials for visuals such as Velcro, magnetic strips, foam boards and books to make portable systems that we can provide to parents. After a brief tutorial on how the BoardmakerŽ Software works most parents can create their own visuals.
Winter Sensory Gym & ART
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)
* 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 TIME CHANGE PLEASE NOTE
Location: Artist Palette Fine Art Studio 70 Douglas Road Whitinsville, MA 01588 Children 3-10 ( limited to 4 children) Time: Saturday's 9 AM- 10 AM Starting as soon as we have sufficient enrollment (2 more children)
Sensory Clinic with Amy Smith COTA
at Sensibility Gym 8 Charlesview Place unit 4 Hopedale Ma
Dates: Sundays February 3,17,24th March 3,17th, April 7,14, 21st
Children 3-9 2-3 PM Children 10-18 3-4 PM Cost $40.00
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Community Recreational Inclusion Program
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As promised we have created more programs to encourage inclusion in the community for kids with ASD. In addition to 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 Montachusett YMCA in Fitchburg, The Tri Community YMCA in Southbridge and the Hockomock YMCA, Franklin Branch for children ( under 18) with ASD who are DDS eligible, which will run up to 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 various YMCAs 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. In general a Y membership allows you utilize YMCA's across the country, but your membership should be utilized most at the YMCA where you have a membership- Hence if you get a membership at the Greendale Y - you can't just use the facilities at the Boroughs YMCA.
The use of a YMCA allows more flexibility for families in hours and access, I am hoping to be able to offer the same at the TriCommunity YMCA in Southbridge.
To apply on your child's behalf for a Y scholarship please use the form below, indicating which YMCA you'd like to have them join. You can copy and paste into a word document and mail to the Autism Resource Center. Please do not call or e-mail forms. Cid will call you with the contact person at the YMCA's name & number so you can meet to fill out your application and they will invoice the Autism Resource center. Memberships will be effective to June 30th
YMCA Scholarship
Greendale YMCA Montachusett YMCA Tri Community YMCA Hockamock YMCA Franklin Branch (circle please)
Child's Name___________________________________Diagnosis ____________________Age: _____________
Parent Name __________________________Phone: ______________ E-mail____________________________
Address:_____________________________________________________________________________________
Mail to: Autism Resource Center, 71 Sterling St, West Boylston MA 01583
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Autism in the Media
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When Autistic Children Are Children No More
Three local families confront the looming social crisis.
By Cassie Walker Burke
The peas must be sorted. On a recent Friday morning, several 20-something volunteers buzz around a North Shore basement that houses a food pantry for the needy. Pouya Bagherian, an outgoing young man who is prone to mistakenly throwing valuables into the trash, goes through bags of donations. Jason Kaplan, a quiet type who is most comfortable plugged into his iPod, checks each can of peas to make sure it has no puncture marks. And Frank Craven, who is slight and wears thick-rimmed glasses, organizes the cans on a shelf so that the earliest expiration dates are in front.
These tasks require an enthusiasm for repetition that many people would find mind numbing. Not these three. Bagherian and Kaplan, both 26, are autistic; Craven, also 26, has a rare autism-like condition called Lowe syndrome. Coming here lets them build real-world skills such as organization and teamwork, plus earn the satisfaction of a job well done. Equally important, it gives them a reason to get up in the morning. read more
Researchers Detect an Anti-Autism Advantage in FemalesFindings may help explain disorder's prevalence among boysBy Randy Dotinga HealthDay Reporter MONDAY, Feb. 18 (HealthDay News) -- A protective effect in females may help explain one of the biggest mysteries of autism: Why boys are five times more likely to develop the developmental brain disorder than girls. read more
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Free Movie Tickets
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Regal Cinema's has an unwritten policy of providing one free "companion ticket" when you go to the movies with a person with developmental disabilities. All you have to do is ask. As a companion or caretaker to someone with disabilities, you get in free. This is great news especially for respite providers who sometimes spend money to make money doing respite for people.
How would the cinema determine this a valid request if the disability is intellectual in nature and there is no "visible" sign?
That is a good question Gail. I put a call into a Regal Cinema in Boston and management there said that a medical assistant or respite provider must show medical assistant identification (proof of employment) for companion pass. The "Admittance Procedure" page for Regal Cinema, http://www.regmovies.com/Theatres/Admittance-Procedures, states: ADA Seating & Companion Pass: - 1. Regal Entertainment Group theatres are handicap accessible. All seating designated as "handicapped" with the familiar wheelchair symbol is reserved for the disabled and their companions.
- 2. Guests attending our theatres in an assistant/companion role for one of our guests with disabilities may be passed in by management.
- 3. If you need assistance for any reason, please ask one of our theatre personnel for assistance.
Clickable Web links - 1. http://www.regmovies.com/Theatres/Admittance-Procedures
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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,_______________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________.
I understand the photograph will not be used in any other way without my consent.
_________________________________________________________ ______________
Individual/Parent/Guardian Date
_________________________________________________________ ______________
Photographer Date
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"Getting Answers from Babies about Autism"
Mayada Elsabbagh, Ph.D., Assistant Professor, McGill University
Description: A rapidly growing area of research falls at the crossroads of two exciting disciplines: infancy and autism. This emerging research draws on innovative basic science, which has in the last decade succeeded in getting answers from very young babies about their development, cognition, and communication. These advances are now being used for the long-term goal of helping clinicians to detect autism much earlier than currently possible. Findings suggest that before the onset of full symptoms around three years, less obvious brain and cognitive differences appear to be present in infants at-risk for autism. Moreover, characteristics of brain function very early in life map onto variable outcomes in toddlerhood. Translation of these discoveries into personalized health applications will rely on engagement of a wide range of stakeholders in order to address complex scientific, social and ethical issues.
6:00 p.m., Wednesday, February 20, 2013
MIT Building 46-3002 (Singleton Auditorium), followed by a reception
Building Address: 43 Vassar Street, Cambridge, MA 02139
**A Free Parent/Guardian Training**
Topic: Exploring Residential Alternatives
in the Present Economic Climate
Alan White, Director of Residential Alternatives at TILL, Inc.
(Toward Independent Living and Learning) will speak about housing options and the variety of segments that it takes to put together the pieces of this challenging puzzle. As part of this discussion, Section 8 will also be addressed
i.e. who can apply, how to apply, how money can be used, and related information for obtaining housing sudsidies.
TILL has been in existence for more than 30 years and has a broad base for its residential models in addition to other essential services it provides. Alan has been an integral part of the process of helping people find creative opportunities for their loved ones for 28 years.
Date: Thursday, February 28, 2013
(Snowdate: March 7th)
Time: 6:45-8:45 P.M.
Place: Minuteman Arc for Human Services,
130C Baker Ave. Extension, Concord, MA
To register for this workshop, R.S.V.P. by Tuesday, February 26th to Michele Klein: MKlein@minutemanarc.org or 978-287-7900.
Please include your phone number when registering.
IF THE WEATHER IS QUESTIONABLE, PLEASE CHECK MEETING STATUS: 978-287-7900.
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
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
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
March 15, 2013 from 9:00 AM to 3:30 PM
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
Autism Spectrum Disorders across the Lifespan,
The Leominster Public Library is proud to partner with the May Institute to present Autism Spectrum Disorders across the Lifespan, a three-part series of programs dealing with diagnosis, treatment and insurance options for individuals with autism spectrum disorders. Each program will feature a presentation by experts with a question & answer period.
Wednesday, April 10, 6:30 - 8:00 p.m.
Topic: Diagnosis
Wednesday, April 24, 6:30 - 8:00 p.m.
Topic: Effective Treatment
Wednesday, May 15, 6:30 - 8:00 p.m.
Topic: Insurance Options
Watch for more details about the program content and presenters in the next Between Friends and on the library website's Calendar of Events.
The programs are free and open to the public. Light refreshments will be provided. Please register for one or all programs through the library's Calendar of Events at www.leominsterlibrary.org.
This series will kickoff the launch of the library's Special Health Care Needs Collections at the Leominster Public Library. The Special Health Care Needs Collections are evidence-based resources for helping individuals with developmental disabilities and mental health issues. Theses resources have been recommended by staff from the May Institute.
The May Institute is an award-winning nonprofit organization that provides educational, rehabilitative, and behavioral healthcare services to individuals with autism spectrum disorders and other developmental disabilities, brain injury, mental illness, and behavioral health needs. The Institute also provides training and consultation services to professionals, organizations, and public school systems. The organization is one of the largest and most well-respected providers of services and special education schools for children and adults with autism and other special needs in Massachusetts and in the U.S. Since its founding more than 55 years ago, May Institute has evolved into a national network that serves thousands of individuals and their families annually. With corporate headquarters in Randolph, Mass., the Institute operates nearly 200 service locations in more than a dozen states across the country.
Edward L. Bergman
Head of Adult Services
Leominster Public Library
30 West Street
Leominster, MA 01453
978-534-7522 x 114
978-840-3357 fax
www.leominsterlibrary.org
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AFAM Newsletter and Autism License Plate
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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
Click here to download an application
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Research Studies Seeking Participants
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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
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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
Mass General Transcend Study
Visit our website for other studies seeking participants Research Studies
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CONFERENCES & WORKSHOPS
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Community Autism Resources
The 18th Annual ASD Symposium
For More information on registration click here
This Years Schedule
THURSDAY, MARCH 21
Paula Kluth, Ph.D.
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
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The Autism Resource Center does not endorse any treatments, programs or products. Articles, announcements and resources are provided for information purposes only.
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