ASO DIGEST: January 14, 2008

[Guest guest]

Dear Friend of ASO:

FYI - Please share.

- Next Of Kin Registry (NOKR) Emergency Contact System

- Center for Children with Special Health Care Needs Involving Families as Advisors Toolkit

- Personal Assistance Services (PAS) Facts: Volume 1

- MRDD Family Advisory Council Meeting, Columbus

- READY S.E.T GO! SENSORIMOTOR EARLY CHILDHOOD/ELEMENTARY THEMES, Indianapolis, IN

- Families for Effective Autism Treatment (FEAT) of Greater Cincinnati Workshops

- Classes Presented by The O’Leary Center for Autism Spectrum Disorders, Cincinnati

- Book: TOOLS FOR TOTS: SENSORY STRATEGIES FOR TODDLERS AND PRESCHOOLERS

- 1st Annual West Central Ohio Autism Conference, Wapakoneta

- ASA on CBS Up to the Minute

- Article: New Genetic Link To Autism Identified

- Information from Stillman - Autism Spectrum Self-Advocate, Author, and Consultant

- Hearing on Banning Corporal Punishment in Ohio Schools, Ohio HB406

- Free Online Courses from LinguiSystems

- Presentation: What Adults With Disabilities Wish All Parents Knew, Toledo

- Presentation from Assistance Dogs of America, Toledo

- Autism Speaks to Host "Rock 'Til It Stops" Benefit Show, Cleveland

- The National Autism Association - Northeast Ohio (NAA-NEO) Presents Its2nd Annual Autism Concert, Akron & Cleveland

- New Films on Children with Disabilities and Asperger's Syndrome from Fanlight Productions

- 2008 Recreation Fair Provides Information on Camps and Much More, Cleveland

- Gluten Free/Casein Free Diet Presentation, Mc, PA

- Article: Autistic Kids: The Sibling Problem

NOTE: If you are interested in participating in research projects, ASO is now posting all research opportunities on our website. For information on available opportunities, visit our webpage www.autismohio.org, click on "Information" along the left side of the home page and then click on "Studies/Surveys".Have you purchased your Ohio Autism Awareness License Plate yet? To purchase yours, visit www.oplates.com and click on "Specialty Plates" or visit our website at www.autismohio.org for more information.

Sincerely,Autism Society of Ohio701 S. Main St.Akron, OH 44311(330) 376-0211fax: (330) 376-1226email: askASO@...home: byavorcik@...web: www.autismohio.org Please note: This is provided for information purposes only. The ASO does not endorse or recommend any providers, methodologies or services. Providing this information should not be construed as an endorsement by the ASO, either explicit or impiled.

Next Of Kin Registry (NOKR) Emergency Contact System

The Next Of Kin Registry (NOKR) is an emergency contact system to help if you or your family member is missing, injured or deceased. NOKR provides the public a free proactive service to store emergency contacts, next of kin and vital medical information that would be critical to emergency response agencies. Stored information is only accessible via a secure area that is only accessible by emergency public trust agencies that have registered with NOKR. Register with the Next Of Kin Registry (NOKR) - http://nokr.org/nok/restricted/home.htm

Center for Children with Special Health Care Needs Involving Families as Advisors Toolkit

This toolkit was developed from resources and materials used with the Family Consultant Project, which is a model for sustaining meaningful involvement of family members as expert consultants. This project was founded on the assumption that the involvement of patients and their families in the design, implementation and evaluation of pediatric healthcare services, programs and policies makes a significant difference. Patients and their families bring fresh perspectives and creative solutions to assure quality of care. This toolkit provides resources and handouts to help you involve families as advisors or consultants in your own organization.

http://www.cshcn.org/resources/famadvisor.cfm

Personal Assistance Services (PAS) Facts: Volume 1

This fact sheet from Virginia Commonwealth University RRTC on Workplace Supports and Job Retention offers a short overview and history of Personal Assistance Services (PAS) as they developed out of institutional based services to community-based services and discusses some key pieces of legislation that impact the utilization of these services. The article also highlights promising practices, including self-directed PAS services and PAS at the workplace. http://www.worksupport.com/resources/viewContent.cfm/617

MRDD Family Advisory Council Meeting

February 5, 200810:00-3:00 CDC Training RoomColumbus Developmental CenterColumbus, Ohio 10:00-10:15 Welcome: Peggy Updates 10:15-12:00 Non-Waiver Supported Employment: Adult Day Waiver Services and Settlement I.O. Waivers: McAvoy 12:00-12:30 Lunch provided by the County Board Association 12:30-2:00 NW Ohio Evaluation and Treatment Center (program for individuals that need structured services): Brent Baer, NODC Program Director 2:00-3:00 “Director Chats†Director Please rsvp to Michele Kanode at michele.kanode@... or by phone at 614-644-0265.

READY S.E.T GO! SENSORIMOTOR EARLY CHILDHOOD/ELEMENTARY THEMESPresented byJENNY CLARK BRACK,OTR/LMarch 10, 2008The Adam’s Mark Hotel2544 Executive DriveIndianapolis, IN 46241PRESENTED BYTHE INDIANA RESOURCE CENTER FOR AUTISMINDIANA INSTITUTE ON DISABILITY AND COMMUNITYINDIANA’S UNIVERSITY CENTER FOR EXCELLENCE ON DISABILITYCourse Objectives:- Review sensory systems and signs/symptoms of Sensory Processing Disorder as well as current research in this field.- Discuss practical ideas for implementing sensory strategies into learning environments and within the context of children’s daily routines.- Discuss strategies for utilizing best practice for IDEA and No Child Left Behind with a transdisciplinary approach.- Discover how Ready S.E.T Go! facilitates readiness skills for motor, sensory, language, cognitive and social development in both educational and home environments.- Experience first-hand what it feels like to have a sensory processing disorder.

- Discuss how to adapt activities for a variety of diagnosis.- Create original lesson plans for sensorimotor/sensory processing group activities.Course Content:Overview of Sensory ProcessingSensorimotor ThemesSchool Readiness SkillsTheme ExamplesWorking with Special PopulationsTake Home Lesson Plans

About The Speakers Brack is a licensed pediatric Occupational Therapist with over 18 years experience working as a school-based occupational therapist, an independent contractor for early intervention services, a speaker, a private practitioner, an author and an inventor. Mrs. Brack currently owns a pediatric therapy private practice ’s Kids, Inc. She received her Bachelor’s degree in Occupational Therapy and graduated with distinction from the University of Kansas in 1990. She has written journal articles that have been published in professional journals such as OT Practice, Occupational Therapy Forum. Additionally, she has written a book on Sensory Processing entitled Learn to Move, Move to Learn: Sensorimotor Early Childhood Activity Themes as well as two DVD’s of which one, Sensory Processing Disorder Kit: Simulations and Solutions for Parents, Teachers, and Therapists, won the 2007 media in excellence video award from Autism Society of America. has spoken both nationally and internationally on a variety of topics, including sensory integration/processing, learning disabilities, attention deficit disorders, and handwriting skills.Who Should AttendThis workshop is geared for general and special education teachers, administrators, early intervention providers, family members, and those interested in learning more about supporting individuals on the autism spectrum.Additional InformationThe conference is scheduled from 8:30 a.m. — 3:30 p.m. with registration and coffee beginning at 8:00 a.m. All times are Eastern Daylight Time.The registration fee for this conference is $100.00Location: Adam’s Mark Hotel; 2544 Executive Drive; Indianapolis, IN 46241.Registration fee includes morning coffee, pastries, and presentation materials. Lunch will be on your own.All registrations are final. No money will be refunded.Make checks or purchase orders payable to Indiana University and return registration form with payment to Doyle, IIDC, 2853 East Tenth Street, Bloomington, IN 47408-2696.If you are paying with a purchase order or credit card, you can fax your completed registration form and payment information to the Indiana Resource Center for Autism at (812) 855-9630.Once your completed registration form is received by the Indiana Resource Center for Autism, a confirmation packet will be mailed to participants that includes a confirmation letter, receipt of payment, map to conference location, and lodging information.Certificates of Attendance, CEUs, and CRUs Certificates of attendance will be provided free. CEUs (Continuing Education Units— general education) and CRUs (Certification Renewal Units) will be available on-site. Administrative fee is $15.00 made payable to Indiana University. If you still have questions...If you have questions about the conference content, please contact Dr. Pratt (prattc@...) at (812) 855-6508. Registration questions should be directed to Doyle (keadoyle@...) or Donna Beasley (dbeasley@... at (812) 855-6508.

Registration Form: http://www.iidc.indiana.edu/irca/conferences/ReadySetGoForm.html

Families for Effective Autism Treatment (FEAT) of Greater Cincinnati Workshops

Families for Effective Autism Treatment (FEAT) of Greater Cincinnati would like to invite you to these free workshops and the opportunity to arrive at 9:30 for new parent information. Certificates of attendance will be provided at the end of each workshop.

Winter 2007 Workshop: Introductory Instructor WorkshopPresented by: Dr. Kroeger-Geoppinger & Dr. Rena Sorensen-BurnworthTopics: This workshop will begin with the basics of ABA and include important techniques and strategies for those working one-on-one with children with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD).DATE: Saturday January 26th, 2008 10am-12pmLOCATION: Kenwood Baptist Church, 8341 Kenwood Rd, second floor, look for signs

Winter 2007 Workshop: Advanced Instructor WorkshopPresented by: Dr. Rena Sorensen-Burnworth & Dr. Kroeger-GeoppingerTopics: This workshop will focus on a more in-depth understanding of the principles of behavior and how to apply these ideas when working with children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD).DATE: Saturday February 16th, 2008 10am-12pmLOCATION: Kenwood Baptist Church, 8341 Kenwood Rd, second floor, look for signs

For more info, visit www.autismcincy.org.

Classes Presented by The O’Leary Center for Autism Spectrum Disorders

The O’Leary Center for Autism Spectrum Disorders (TKOC) in the Division of Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, with support from Hamilton County Board of MRDD and the Autism Society of Greater Cincinnati, presents a number of classes on Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD). For all classes, you must register with Mark Brasington at 513-636-5352 (or) mark.brasington@....

“New to the Diagnosis Seriesâ€: held from 6:30-8:30PM at Madeira Middle School (Cafeteria) 6612 Miami Ave, Cincinnati. The class below has a $5.00 registration fee. Class size is limited. February 4, 2008

"Understanding Sensory Issues in Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD)â€â€œVisual Supports: Make-it Take-itâ€The class will be February 20 from 5-7PM. Whereas the last “Make-it Take-it†class was geared towards educators, this class is for parents of children with ASD and will provide the opportunity to make visual supports including a variety of schedules as well as choice boards, token reinforcement systems and work systems. The cost of the class is $10.00 and class size is limited.

"Getting Started: An Introduction to Autism Spectrum Disorders for Families" This series is for families who want to learn more about ASD and who want to learn effective strategies for working with their child with ASD. Dates: January 15, 22, 29 and February 5, 2008. Call for details.

"Next Steps: A Follow-up to Getting Started" This is a five week series for family members of children with ASD and is an opportunity to learn more about behavioral strategies. The class requires a commitment to attend all five classes, and there will be "homework" assignments. Classes run from 7-9PM. Dates: February 12, 19, 26 and March 4, 11, 2008 (must attend all five) and will be held at Cincinnati Children's Mason location, 9560 Children's Dr. Cost: Hamilton County residents – one registrant $35.00, two registrants $50.00 Non-Hamilton County residents – One registrant $50.00, Two registrants $75.00

"Intro to the O'Leary Center†(TKOC) Class" Free class held the first Thursday of the month, this class provides an overview of services offered by TKOC and how to access those services.

TOOLS FOR TOTS: SENSORY STRATEGIES FOR TODDLERS AND PRESCHOOLERS

A. Henry, MS, OTR/L, Maureen Kane-Wineland, PhD, OT/L, Swindean, OTR/L, BCP have co-authored this unique book designed to offer practical sensory options to improve the ability of toddlers and preschoolers to function in their environments at home, in child care centers and in school. A variety of sensory “buffet†activities and environmental strategies are offered in a very user friendly format highlighting the different sensory “toolsâ€. Topics include Picky Eater Tidbits, Tooth Brush Tamers, Potty Pleasers,Hair Care, Nail Nippers, Tubby Time Tips, Beddie Bye Bliss, and more! Learn how to promote engagement and help Touchy Tots, Sensitive Ears, Busy Bees, Flumbling Tots, Tippy Toe Tots, and Spirited Tots get along, and what to do to get the help he needs.

Ordering Information: Contact ToolsForTots2007@... to order your copy. The cost is $16.95

1st Annual West Central Ohio Autism Conference Save This Date!!! Saturday, March 8, 2008 Wapakoneta High SchoolWapakoneta, OH 9:00 a.m.- 3:00 p.m. Our Keynote speakers will be Joe and Marilyn Henn Marilyn & Joe Henn are parents of a daughter with significant autism who received APSE's 1999 Supported Employment national award and ASA's 2003 national award for Outstanding Individual with Autism. They have presented nationally and as keynote speakers on how they developed transition services that led to their daughter's full-time employment as a mail courier and microfilmer. Marilyn Henn, a registered nurse has received extensive training in behavior management, transition, and supported employment from experts across the country. Joe Henn, a retired executive in tire, rubber and metal parts forming businesses, has become an expert in Social Security Work Incentives, Medicaid, MR/DD funding and housing. He currently manages a family consortium home and has become a limited service provider of habilitation and job coaching services. Registration Materials to follow – mid January This conference is a collaborative effort between West Central Ohio Autism Community, SST-6 and Auglaize County ESC. Sponsored by the Eagles of Wapakoneta

ASA on CBS Up to the Minute

ASA communications director Margi Colston gives perspective on "ThePersonal Side of Autism Research" in a CBS Up to the Minute segment onnew research on a new gene study in the New England Journal ofMedicine and the recently published California study on thimerosal. CBS on gene study:http://www.cbsnews.com/sections/i_video/main500251.shtml?id=3694736nCA thimerosal study:http://ap.google.com/article/ALeqM5is3pqef7LmAO61KRjR-q8Vp0WJxwD8U1BFT80Margi on CBS:http://www.cbsnews.com/sections/i_video/main500251.shtml?id=3694734n

New Genetic Link To Autism Identified

UCLA scientists have used language onset - the age when a child speaks his first word - as a tool for identifying a new gene linked to autism. The team also discovered that the gene is most active in brain regions involved with language and thought. Interestingly, evidence for the genetic link came from the DNA of families with autistic boys, not those with autistic girls. The American Journal of Human Genetics publishes the findings in its Jan. 10 online edition, which also features two studies from research teams at Yale and s Hopkins that used different methods that pinpointed the same gene. The coincidence suggests that the gene, called contactin-associated protein-like 2 (CNTNAP2), likely plays a key role in the development of autism. "This gene not only may predispose children to autism," said Dr. Geschwind, principal investigator and Gordon and Virginia Mac Distinguished Professor of Human Genetics at the Geffen School of Medicine. "It also may influence the development of brain structures involved in language, providing a tangible link between genes, the brain and behavior." Children normally utter their first word by age 1. Children with autism, however, can be speech-delayed by many months or even years. Some never speak language at all. Late language onset is a symptom shared by most children with autism. In an earlier study, the UCLA investigators studied the DNA of 291 families nationwide who had donated blood samples to the Los Angeles-based Autism Genetic Resource Exchange. Each family had at least one autistic child; youngsters who had never spoken were excluded. The findings connected a specific region of Chromosome 7, called 7q35, to autism. In the current study, the researchers scrutinized every gene in the 7q35 region using DNA samples from 172 families. They identified four promising genes; one of the candidates was CNTNAP2. To verify their findings, the scientists conducted a second test on a new group of 304 families. The CNTNAP2 gene showed up consistently, confirming its implication in language development. In a second approach, the researchers examined CNTNAP2's presence in early brain tissue and discovered that the gene was most active in developing brain structures involved in language and thought. Postdoctoral fellow Brett Abrahams, who led this part of the research, explains the finding's significance by comparing the brain to a house. "We know that different rooms in houses serve different purposes," said Abrahams. "For example, if an item only appears in the kitchen, it makes sense to assume it's involved in cooking. Or if we find an object only in the bedroom, it's likely connected to sleeping. "The fact that we found CNTNAP2 concentrated in the brain's structures that are involved in higher cognition gives us strong clues about how its disruption might adversely shape brain development, including speech and language," he said. In an unexpected third finding, the scientists found that statistical evidence for the gene was strongest in families with autistic boys. Less of an association appeared in families with autistic boys and girls, or in families with autistic girls only. "Autism strikes boys three times as often as girls," said Maricela Alarcon, first author and UCLA assistant professor in residence of neurology. "This finding may partly explain why." The 3:1 gender ratio between boys and girls also applies to rates of attention deficit disorders, learning disabilities and language disorders. "It will be interesting to learn whether CNTNAP2 also plays a role in language development in non-autistic children," observed Alarcon. "Our next step will be to identify more traits, such as seizures or other symptoms, that will help us track down additional genes linked to the disorder." ----------------------------Article adapted by Medical News Today from original press release.----------------------------

Information from Stillman - Autism Spectrum Self-Advocate, Author, and Consultant New Year Greetings! Here are some new updates to share. Thanks to all for the continued interest and support!

The Autism Perspective magazine has gone "green" and will no longer be published in hardcopy format. However the entire magazine, with its great graphics, terrific photography, and cutting-edge articles, may be accessed FREE online (registration required) at www.theautismperspective.org. Self-advocate Attfield is now a columnist with wise insights. Check it out! A Spanish-language version of "Presuming Intellect" is now available upon request (and will eventually be posted to the Web site) with grateful thanks to Ruesga and my good friends at Fiesta Educativa in Los Angeles (and with PDF tech support from Youth Advocate Programs, Inc.). Contact me directly for the file. The Autism Answer Book is going into its second printing and with a new cover design. It encompasses over 300 questions (and "inside-out" answers) from real parents categorized into twelve chapters. See the "Bill's Books" section of the Web site for further details. Autism and the God Connection is soon going into its third printing, and is receiving a German translation by foreign publisher Amra Verlag (a Spanish translation is currently under consideration as well). For those families confused or compromised by experiences that may be defined as spiritual and require clarity, I've added a protocol addressing these issues to the "Autism and the God Connection" section of the Web site. The Soul of Autism, sequel to Autism and the God Connection, will be published by New Page Books April 1. Early editorial feedback has been glowing thus far! National bookseller & Noble has placed a sizable advance order and will be promoting the book in-store through displays with the book's cover facing out (significant in the publishing world!). Additionally, two different excerpts will appear in the online magazines TheGlobalIntelligencer.com, and ChildrenoftheNewEarth.com. Children of the New Earth is now promoting the book with an ad banner on its homepage (which alternates throughout the day with another New Page title). Deep appreciation to my publisher New Page Books for their terrific backing and support! For those living in northwestern Pennsylvania or southwestern New York, I will be speaking about autism and spirituality at Lily Dale Assembly, Lily Dale, New York on June 30; and I'll be making a presentation about presuming intellect at the Autism Society of America national conference July 10 - 12 in Orlando, Florida. Please check my presentation for further details. Two recent online radio interviews may be of interest. The first was with Debbie Macias of The Mommies Corner and addressed autism and a spiritual association, and the second was discussing The Autism Answer Book with Rhonda Brunett of AutismOne Radio. The links to both programs are here: Click here: The Preachers Corner Live and Click here: Autism One Radio The Everything Parent's Guide to Children with Asperger's Syndrome is being edited and reformatted in an economy-priced, no-frills edition this May titled When Your Child has Asperger's Syndrome. It will retail for $6.95. Watch for it from publisher Media.

StillmanAutism Spectrum Self-Advocate, Author, and Consultantwww.williamstillman.com

Hearing on Banning Corporal Punishment in Ohio Schools

HB 406 sponsor testimony by Representatives Jon and will be presented in the House Education Committee on Tuesday, January l5 at 3:00 pm in Room ll6. The bill would ban school corporal punishment in Ohio public schools, a practice that was reported in seventeen districts in 2004-05 and 2005-06. If you are receiving this message, it is because you are a representative of an organization which has signed a proclamation calling for a ban on its use (see word file attachment of 48 endorsements). More endorsements of individuals including educators can be found on our website at: http://www.stophitting.com/disatschool/

A couple of weeks ago the Dayton Daily News reported that Governor Strickland has endorsed the bill.HB 406 is the second bill on the agenda. Please attend if you can and plan to send letters and email to committee members supporting a ban on corporal punishment in Ohio public schools. If you are planning to give testimony in support of the bill (probably the following week) would you let me know? nblock@...

An analysis of HB 406 is not yet available. You can find the bill at: http://www.legislature.state.oh.us/bills.cfm?ID=127_HB_406

Here is a summary of what HB 406 does: Corporal punishment is currently permitted in Ohio public schools if the district board adopts a policy permitting it (R.C.3319.41). The bill amends the current statute to prohibit outright corporal punishment in public schools. It also applies to community schools (R.C.3314.03) and Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics schools (R.C.326.11). It retains the provision specifically permitting school employees, within the scope of their employment, to use reasonable and necessary force and restraint to protect persons and property, for purposes of self defense, and to obtain possession of weapons or other dangerous objects. The bill is similar to laws banning school corporal punishment adopted in 29 states and it uses the NEA model legislation of l972.

Reasons to support the bill:Corporal punishment can result in physical and psychological harm to children including bruises, broken bones, alienation to school and post-traumatic stress syndrome. Children most often hit are poor children, boys, those with disabilities, and minorities (U.S. Department of Education, Office of Civil Rights). Litigation is sometimes brought against school boards and educators by parents of school-injured children. Violence is taught and passed on to future generations by showing that hitting is an appropriate and sanctioned way of dealing with interpersonal problems. The State of Ohio recognizes the harmfulness of corporal punishment and bans it in regulated childcare, foster care, and institutions for children. It should likewise be banned in schools. If almost 600 public school districts and all Catholic schools in Ohio can successfully educate children without corporal punishment, why can't the seventeen paddling districts do so?

Reasons to oppose the bill:The state should honor community values supporting corporal punishment in schools (local control) . This will probably be the major opponent argument of educators who want to continue paddling. We believe this is a poor argument. We believe it is important that the state ensure safe school environments for children. It already does that through many laws such as those requiring background checks and bullying programs. “Local control†is cynical packaging for opposing a bill when there are no credible arguments to offer in opposition.

House Education Committee Contact Information is as follows:Ohio House of Representatives – Education Committee Democrat Brady District 16 (Westlake) district16@... Ted Celeste District 24 (Grandview Heights) district24@... Dyer District 43 (Green) district43@...Jennifer Garrison District 93 (Marietta) district93@... V. Gerberry District 59 (Austintown) district59@... Heard District 26 (Columbus) district26@... Clayton Luckie District 39 (Dayton) district39@... Matt Lundy District 57 (Elyria) district57@...Mark D. Okey District 61 (Carrollton) district61@...Vernon Sykes District 44 (Akron) district44@... G. District 41 (Akron) district41@... Republican District 78 (Sidney) district78@...Thom Collier District 90 (Mount Vernon) district90@...Clyde District 87 (Rio Grande) district87@...Tom Patton District 18 (Strongsville) district18@...Jon M. District 02 (Delaware) district02@... Steve Reinhard District 82 (Bucyrus) district82@... M. Schlichter District 85 (Washington C.H.) district85@...Arlene Setzer District 36 (Vandalia) district36@...Gerald L. Stebelton District 05 (Lancaster) district05@... Jeff Wagner District 81 (Sycamore) district81@... N. Webster District 53 (Hamilton) district53@... Widowfield District 42 (Cuyahoga Falls) district42@... thanks, Nadine Block, Executive Director of the Center for Effective Discipline and co-chair of EPOCH-USA 155 W. Main Street #1603, Columbus, OH 43215 (614) 221-8829www.stophitting.org corporal punishment laws and regulations, status of use, effects, and alternatives

Free Online Courses from LinguiSystems

Hello, Friends, Just when you thought LinguiSystems had exceeded your expectations by offering FREE CEUs . . . we're doing it again! Now we're offering you more FREE CEUs with our Source®Courses. Just buy one of our Source® titles below, read it, take the test online, and earn FREE CEUs. It's that easy to earn between .5 and .8 CEUs with our new Source®Courses. The following on-line courses are currently available:• Attention Disorders 0.2 CEUs / 2 CEEs • Changing Behavior to Change the Child's Voice 0.2 CEUs / 2 CEEs • Intervention Strategies for ELL with Language Learning Disabilities 0.2 CEUs / 2 CEEs New!• Reading Comprehension Strategies 0.3 CEUs / 3 CEEs • Stuttering Disorders in School-Aged Children 0.4 CEUs / 4 CEEs

The following Source®Courses are currently available:• The Source® for Asperger's Syndrome 0.5 CEUs / 5 CEEs New!• The Source® for Children with Cochlear Implants 0.7 CEUs / 7 CEEs New!• The Source® for Dysphagia 0.8 CEUs / 8 CEEs New!• The Source® for Processing Disorders 0.8 CEUs / 8 CEEs New!Each CEU you earn is FREE, and the courses are practical and loaded with use-tomorrow strategies. With our on-line courses, you'll be able to view or download the courses from home or work. You can complete each course and/or assessment in one sitting or sign in and out as often as you like to complete it. With our Source®Courses, read the book at your own pace and then take the test online. Once you've completed the course, taken and passed the assessment, and completed the course evaluation, you'll earn FREE CEUs.

LinguiSystems provided innovative, effective, affordable, and therapeutically-sound materials for speech-language pathologists, LD and special education teachers, reading specialists, classroom teachers, and their students or patients.

http://www.linguisystems.com/ceu_intro.php

Northwest Ohio Center for Families and Children

Presents:

“What Adults With Disabilities Wish All Parents Knewâ€

Based on the book titled

“Reflections from a Different Journeyâ€

By Stanley Klein, PhD & Kemp

P.E.E.R.S

People Exemplifying Excellence

With Real-Life Stories

We the Northwest Ohio Center for

Families and Children (NCFC)

Believe that a person’s experiences

And their successes

Are two of the greatest forms of

Education and encouragement to others;

These people are often identified as P.E.E.R.S.

The NCFC is going to provide an opportunity

For children born with a disability/developmental delay (DD)

Or the parents of a child w/DD to see and hear from these very people

Who have also had to overcome tremendous fears, barriers and challenges

And who have fought to gain a rightful place in their community

For themselves or their children.

These people are positive role models, advocates, teachers and leaders

Exemplifying the excellence they have fought to achieve

By believing their future is attainable.

We will provide this opportunity in a four part educational series

Focusing on Family Life, Education, Vocational, and Social/Recreational topics.

Parents and their children will hear from four panelists

Which will consist of parents, consumers and one local expert,

Sharing the wisdom and skills they have gained

From their personal life’s experience

FORUM DATES:

Session I: Family Life, Sat. Feb.2, 08 Session II: Education Sat. Feb.9, 08

Session III: Vocation, Sat. Feb. 16, 08 Session IV: Rec/Social Sat. Mar 1, 08

ALL SESSIONS WILL BE HELD AT:

The Emergency Management Services (EMS) Building

2127 Monroe St., Toledo, Ohio 43604

11:00 am. – 1:00 pm.

(Child care & Lunch will be provided for all sessions)

REGISTRATION FORM

Name______________________________

Address____________________________

Phone______________________________

City, State, Zip_______________________

E-mail_________________________________

Child’s Name_______________________________ Age_______

Disability_____________________________________

I will need child care for #________________

(Select Session you will be attending)

Session 1 (Family Life) Session 2 (Education) Session 3 (Vocation) Session 4 (Recreation/Social)

How many attending? _______________

Send Registration to:

Attn. Deborah Armstead

Northwest Ohio Center for Families and Children

2238 Jefferson Ave. 2nd Floor

Toledo, Ohio 43604

Or call (419) 251-1816

Or Email to: debarmstead@...

Thank you for your interest!

We are also looking for at least 20 parents to commit to a minimum of three sessions for the purpose of be able to accurately evaluate our program and confirming the significance of P.E.E.R.S being a future resource for families.

Funding for this project provided by the Lucas County Board of Mental Retardation & Developmental Disabilities

Presentation from Assistance Dogs of America

The Cerebral Palsy Network is Going To the Dogs! Assistance Dogs of America, that is! Specially trained dogs are used as assistance, therapy & companion animals. Join us to learn about the programs, to decide if a service animal is right for your child, and how to go about applying for one. Or maybe you’d like to be a foster parent, raising dogs that will be trained to serve other people? Service dog owners are invited to bring their dogs along and to share their experiences. · Wednesday, January 16, 2008· 6:30 – 8:30 pm· United Way Building, Training Room (basement)· Superior St. between Cherry & , across from the Toledo Blade, next to the Vistula parking garage (Our address does not show up on MapQuest) Please rsvp to Joni at 419-254-4644 Or joni.dehne@... Call if you need directions to or through Toledo.

Autism Speaks to Host "Rock 'Til It Stops" Benefit Show

Autism Speaks will host a special one-night-only benefit concert, featuring performances by Stills and Stanley, at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum in Cleveland, Ohio, on Saturday, April 12. "Rock 'Til It Stops" will be an evening of food, music and fun as the Cleveland community joins together to raise awareness about autism and funds to support Autism Speaks' local and national research, education and outreach initiatives. Ticket prices start at $150 and sponsorship opportunities are available. For more information, visit http://www.autismspeaks.org/press/rock_til_it_stops.php.

The National Autism Association - Northeast Ohio (NAA-NEO) Presents Its2nd Annual Autism Concert

If you are interested in tickets please email me first at asagreaterakron@....The National Autism Association - Northeast Ohio (NAA-NEO) Presents Its2nd Annual Autism Concertto Benefit Northeast Ohio Families and the Helping Hand ProgramIn response to the overwhelming amount of grant requests for the National Autism Association - Northeast Ohio (NAA-NEO) Helping Hand grant program, two benefit concerts will be held in February 2008. The goal of these events is to raise the necessary funds so that we can respond to the high need for funding autism treatments and therapies in the Northeast Ohio community. Two shows will be staged this time - one in Akron, OH and one in Cleveland so that we can reach two major Northeast Ohio audiences. The performers this year are critically acclaimed artists – make sure you check their bios out by following the links below. Have fun and support our mission by joining us at either or both of these events!IN AKRON at Musica17-19 Maiden Lane, Akron, OHThursday, February 28, 2008 Doors open at 7 pm and show starts at 8 pmTickets are available at www.autismnortheastohio.org/special_events.php or directly at www.ticketweb.com (search by keyword Tim Easton). You can also purchase a ticket via email to apattison@... .Cost: $20 Advance $25 Day of ShowIN CLEVELANDTodd Snider, withhland Ballroom15711 Waterloo Rd., ClevelandFriday, February 29, 2008 Doors open at 7 pm and show starts at 8 pmTickets are available at www.autismnortheastohio.org/special_events.php or directly at www.ticketweb.com (search by keyword Todd Snider or Tim Easton). You can also purchase a ticket via email to apattison@... .Cost: $30 Advance $35 Day of ShowNAA-NEO is a non-profit organization that strives to raise funds to provide financial assistance through its Helping Hand Grant Program to parents of children diagnosed with autism in the Northeast Ohio area so that they have access to necessary treatments and interventions. More information about the organization is available at www.autismnortheastohio.org. Inquiries and tax-deductible donations can be placed online at www.autismnortheastohio.org or may be sent to the National Autism Association of Northeast Ohio (NAA-NEO)PO Box 221195, Beachwood, Ohio 44122.

New Films on Children with Disabilities and Asperger's Syndrome from Fanlight Productions

www.fanlight.com | (800) 937-4113 | info@...

Sign up here for Fanlight's newsletter for more information on upcoming new releases.

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The Boy Inside

By nne Kaplan

Winner of the First Prize at the 2007 Japan Prize Awards, Tokyo, Japan (Youth Education Division).

School is a minefield for Adam, a 12-year-old with Asperger syndrome. Struggling to find a place for himself, he often says or does the wrong thing, and finds himself misunderstood, isolated, and bullied. As his troubles escalate, both at school and at home, his parents wonder how Adam will ever learn how to make and keep friends. How will he handle dating, peer pressure and drugs? Will he eventually be able to survive as an independent adult? In the meantime, will they all survive the grueling challenges of coping with Adam's special needs? This is a rare, first-hand portrait of a tumultuous year in the life of a family in crisis.

Festivals & Conference Screenings

Vancouver International Film FestivalOne World Film Festival, Prague River Film Festival, CanadaReal to Real Film Festival, CanadaVancouver Jewish Film FestivalSprout Film Festival

The Boy Inside has been honored with two other prizes: a CINE Golden Eagle Award, and a Freddie Award, presented by the International Health and Media Awards. The Boy Inside was also recently selected as one of Video Librarian's Best Documentaries of 2008. Look for it in the January / February edition.

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Song of Our Childrenby Beret E. Strong and Tweedy Three decades ago, Congress mandated that American children with disabilities be educated in the "least restrictive environment." In 2000, the National Council on Disability determined that none of the 50 states had yet complied with the law. Today, families and schools are still struggling to achieve the vision of educating all children together while attending to each child's unique learning style and needs.

In Song of Our Children, we meet teachers, administrators, parents, and students whose daily struggles and triumphs exemplify what "educational inclusion" means and what it takes to make it work. The film journeys from a past when children with disabilities were institutionalized or, at best, taught in "special" classrooms, to a present full of innovation and experimentation. This moving portrayal of four memorable children - from preschool age to high school - reveals the challenges, strategies, and benefits of inclusion for everybody.

CINE Golden EagleTASH Annual ConferenceInsight Award for ExcellenceHearts and Minds Film FestivalIstanbul Children's Film Festival Social Justice Film of the Year, Community SharesContinuing the Circle: Ability and Culture ConferencePeak Conference on School Reform and Inclusive Education

"An amazing, moving portrait of students with disabilities included in the everyday work of learning. I have never been so moved by a film."Kathy McBride, Special Education Parent Liaison, Boulder Valley School District

"A persuasive springboard for discussions about cultural respect, diversity, inclusion, and the importance of differentiated learning."Booklist "I believe that every parent, every educator, everyone, should see this film. Powerfully communicates the positive experience that can result for all children involved when inclusive education occurs."Judi Morosohk, MA, Early Childhood Educator and Consultant

Recommended. "A solid discussion starter on the controversial issue of inclusion for special-needs children."Video Librarian

2008 Recreation Fair Provides Information on Camps and Much More Contact: Bonnie Simons 216-524-2770, ext 3818 (Cleveland, Ohio) The 2008 Recreation Fair for Special Needs Children will be held at St. 's Woodside Party Center, in Broadview Heights on Saturday, February 23, 2008 10:00 am – 1:00 pm. Co-Sponsored by the Cuyahoga Special Education Service Center/State Support Team 3, The Center for Mental Retardation, and the Northeast Ohio Parent Mentors, the Recreation Fair, now in its tenth year, provides families with Special Needs children the opportunity to research camps, various recreation opportunities as well as academic, social, and therapeutic activities. Over thirty different camps and recreation opportunities will be represented, along with other support and social service agencies. This year's theme is "It's a Jungle Out There!" Live animal demonstrations, courtesy of the Lake Erie Nature and Science Center, will be on hand from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Games and crafts for children will be available, as will complimentary refreshments. For more information about this FREE event, contact Bonnie Simons, 216-524-2770, ext. 3818 or www.csesc.org .

Gluten Free/Casein Free Diet Presentation, Mc, PA

Thinking of putting your child on a Gluten Free/Casein Free Diet? Interested in learning more about the diet and how to cook without gluten and casein? Join us!Cost: $10Reservations and pre-payment are required. Visit our online store to register and pay at:http://www.autismlinkstore.com/index.asp?PageAction=VIEWPROD & ProdID=143(No refunds.)GF/CF 101Friday, March 7, 20086 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.Lori Bakes Cafe100 S. Mc St.Mc, PA 15057724-207-0009Join us at the Lori Bakes Cafe on Friday March 7, 2008 from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. for GF/CF 101: An Introduction to the Diet by Lori Karavolis. Lori is the owner of Lori Bakes cafe, the parent of a child with disabilities, and the author of 3 GF/CF cookbooks! This hands on presentation will give you a great starting point and tons of information!

Autistic Kids: The Sibling Problem

Time Magazine, December 24th, 2007By Amy Lennard GoehnerA few months ago, I took my sons to buy shoes. Nate is 14 and autistic. is 8 and "typical." And I'm the parent - most of the time. Before we got to the store, said to me, "If Nate has a tantrum, I can handle him. You just focus on buying shoes. I'm better at handling tantrums than you. Sometimes you just yell and it makes things worse. No offense."None taken. He's absolutely right.The "typically developing" siblings of autistic children are, in fact, the furthest thing from typical. Often, they are wiser and more mature than their age would suggest. And they have to be, given the myriad challenges they face: parental responsibility; a feeling of isolation from the rest of their family; confusion, fear, anger and embarrassment about their autistic sibling. And on top of all of it, guilt for having these feelings.As their parents, there's a lot we can do to help. For starters, we can educate them early on, by explaining their sibling's disorder - a conversation that should be ongoing. Dr. Raun Melmed, co-founder and medical director of the Southwest Autism Research and Resource Center in Phoenix, suggests including non-autistic children in visits to the doctor or other autism professionals. Early intervention doesn't have to be "thought of as being geared only to the involved child," Melmed says. In his office, Melmed reassures siblings that "other brothers and sisters have negative and confusing thoughts about their [autistic] siblings. That is common." He also instructs parents to reaffirm that message at home. "Parents need only acknowledge to their healthy children that they know what they are going through and that negative feelings are normal," he says.Remaining article at:a.. http://www.time. com/time/ health/article/ 0,8599,1698128, 00.html

Start the year off right. Easy ways to stay in shape in the new year.