HMEA's Autism Resource Center
THE RESOURCE CONNECTION
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Autism in the Media
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2013 Autism Resource Center of Central Masschusett's 5K & walk for Autism Awareness
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Weekly Update 
March 6, 2013
Greetings!

        This week went quickly! Spring is right around the corner, as well as another snowstorm! Ah New England! But we'll be moving the time on our clocks forward this weekend and spring is just 2 weeks away. When you have  children with disabilities, spring also means legislative advocacy. Let me remind you again of the dates this spring for spreading awareness and giving a voice to our children's needs. 

MARCH 6, 2013 Spread the Word to End the Word  TODAY! www.r-word.org HAVE YOU SIGNED THE PLEDGE?
March 8, 2013 at 8:30 AM the regional legislative breakfast will be held at Clark University.                       
March 26, 2013 We will be hosting a Legislative Coffee at the Greendale YMCA at 7 PM
March 27, 2013 The Autism Commission releases it's report, at Gardner Auditorium in Boston at 1:30 PM 
April 2, 2013.  Light It Up Blue at UMass Medical Center come and mark World Autism Day with us. BIG Thanks to Gerardo's Bakery for donating Italian pastries to this event                                                                                          April 11, 2013  AFAM's Autism Awareness & Acceptance day at the State House 
 It's not that hard to speak with your elected officials and it can make all the difference in the world.
 
This weekend we have a Sibshop and  many families participating in the Family Fun event at Coco Keys. PLEASE if you have signed up and cant make it, send Cid an e-mail at Cdeleo@hmea.org to let her know- we've a long wait list for this event ! 
 
We've something for Dad's that is new and we hope enjoyable. In an effort to help Dad's connect we are scheduling a Dad's Night Out for April 13th. What we're offering is similar to Parent's night out, we'll make a reservation at UNO's near the DCU center for 5 PM- Dad's can get together, have a quick meal then head over to the DCU Center for a Sharks Game which starts at 7PM . Much as Dad's like to spend time with the kids, we think having some guy time with other Dads who are on the same journey and enjoying a game together will be beneficial to them and in the long run for the family. The dinner will be, like our parent night out, on your dime, but the Sharks tickets will be free. 
 
Got kids that LOVE going to the hockey games? Then we've good new for you. We have tickets ( while they last) to the March  23rd Game with the Providence Bruins which is a 7 PM game and the April 7th Game against the Monarchs, which is a Sunday 3 PM game. Tickets for these two games will be $5.00/pp You can order your tickets here.
 
 
Working on extending the Community Inclusion Project to the Y's in Winchendon and the Tri-Borough Y - will let you know next week, as well as a martial arts class in Spencer - watch for details !
 
Have a great week - stay safe in the storm- lets hope it's winter's last hurrah!
 

Sue

 

  

Autism Resource Center of Central Massachusetts'

5K Run and Walk for Autism Awareness

 presented by 

Autism Intervention Specialists 

 

                                                                                                  

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 

 

 

Arch

 

Autism Resource Center Calendar

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You may register for events by clicking here
 

 



FEBRUARY

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

MARCH

MARCH 1, 2013
CENTER CLOSED

                                                                 March 6, 2013                                                                                                                    

                                                          Asperger/ High Functioning                                                                                                                     Autism Support Group                                                            7-9 PM

  

                                                             March 9, 2013                                                                     

Sibshop: THEME: Let's Fly a Kite

                                                          Zion Lutheran Church                                                                                                        60 Main St  Oxford MA 10AM- 2 PM                                              

Cost: $10.00/child $15.00 family cap

 

                                        March 10, 2013                                       

                                                         Family Fun  at CoCo  Keys                                                                                                                   150 Royal Plaza Drive                                                                                                                               Fitchburg MA                                                                                                                            2 PM                                                         

Cost $5.00/per person

 

                             March 11, 2013                               

                                                           Parent Network Brunch                                                                          Accessing Public Supports               

10 AM -12 PM

                                   

                                                          Moms & Tots Group                                                           

4:30- 6 PM

 

                                       March 13, 2013                                       

                                                           Support Group for                                                                                               Parents of Children on the Spectrum                            

7-9 PM  

                                     

                                       March 20, 2013                                           

                                                           Family Fun for Teens                                                                                                  IMAX movie ( Time TBA)                                     

Jordan's Furniture 1 Underprice Way, Natick MA    *

Cost $3.00/per person

 

                               March 27, 2013                                   

                                                     Social Group for older Teens                                                                                   (16 and older) and Young Adults                              

                           Support Group for Parents of Teens and Young Adults                                             TOPIC: Physical Activity           

 

7-9 PM

 

 

 

                                                            March 29, 2013                                                              

Spring Egg Hunt and 

                                                       Pictures with the Bunny                                                      

                                                             HMEA  in Sterling                                                                                                                    3 Bartlett Pond Way ,Sterling Ma                                                    3:30-5 PM 

Cost $5.00/Family

 

                             

 

 

 

 

 

 

 


  
 
 
                                                         
 

Autism Division Funded Programs through the Center 

Social Skills Funding 

Social Skills  

 

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. Spring Clinics will be listed in the April Newsletter .

 

  

 

 

  

 

  

Community Recreational Inclusion Program
 

A YMCA Membership for Your Child.

 
  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 
 

  

Autism In The Media

This could be good news for some families
Bill would give tax break to celiac victims
Bill would OK major deduction for disease sufferers
DEDUCTION FOR DISEASE SUFFERERS
By Elaine Thompson TELEGRAM & GAZETTE STAFF
ethompson@telegram.com
  
No matter what he did as a young man, Michael D. Peterson just couldn't gain weight. At 5 feet 10, he only weighed 118 pounds. Although a long-distance runner, he had little energy and was constantly having stomach aches. read more

 
Disability Cuts Could Be Here To Stay
By Michelle Diament
March 5, 2013
As sweeping federal budget cuts set in, the impact is starting to become clear for those benefiting from special education and other disability programs..........
"(Families) need to plan for some services and supports that they currently have to not be available to them. There's going to be a real cut, and with cuts there are consequences," 
Katy Neas, senior vice president of government relations at Easter Seals, said.  read more

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

 

 

 



 

Community Calendar  

  

 

 

  

  

 

  

 

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
  
 
May 15  
 
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

AFAM Newsletter and Autism License Plate

  

AFAM's December Newsletter is now available click here to read 


 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!

 AFAM AS plate

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 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 


Research Studies Seeking  Participants

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

  

  

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Community Autism Resources

The 18th Annual ASD Symposium

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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

The Autism Resource Center does not endorse any treatments, programs or products. Articles, announcements and  resources are provided for information purposes only.