ASO DIGEST: March 17, 2008

[Guest guest]

Dear Friend of ASO:

Happy St. 's Day!

NEWS FROM ASO

ASO Attends ASA Day on the Hill

ASO Co-President Barb Yavorcik and Board Member Georgia Backus attended the ASA Day on the Hill this past week in Washington DC. Representatives of the ASA provided lots of great information regarding pending legislation at the federal level. Barb met with representatives of Senators Voinovich and Brown as well as Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur. Georgia also met with representatives of Senators Voinovich and Brown as well as Congressman Tim . Watch for upcoming legislative alerts on several key issues regarding federal legislation. For a general overview of federal issues affecting persons with autism from the ASA, click here.

Autism Awareness Rally Planned for April 2 - Plan on Attending!Ohio individuals with autism, activists, families, and state legislators will gather for the fifth annual statewide Autism Awareness Rally at the Ohio Statehouse on April 2, 2008. The rally, which is co-sponsored by the Autism Society of America - Central Ohio Chapter, Autism Speaks, and the Autism Society of Ohio, will take place on the South Lawn of the Statehouse from 11 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. The following speakers are confirmed for the Rally:

Ken Carano, Governor Strickland's Regional Director - Region 12, NE Ohio State Senator (D - 30, St. Clairsville) L. , Director of the Ohio Department of MRDD Barb Yavorcik - Co-President of Autism Society of Ohio, Parent of a child with Autism State Senator Steve Stivers (R - 16, Columbus) Connelly, Ohio Rehabilitation Services Commission, Executive Director Dr. Becky on - Oakstone Academy in Columbus, Founder, with students State Representative Ted Celeste (D - 24, Columbus) Mrs. Georgia Backus - The Rich Center at Youngstown State University, Director State Representative Bacon (R - 21, Columbus), Parent of a child with Autism Dr. Wynn - Nationwide Children's Autism Center, Director Hendrix - Director of State Advocacy Relations, Autism Speaks, Parent of a child with Autism Tom Lather - Ohio Dept. of Education - Office of Exceptional Children, Interim Director Sophia Augier - Parent of 3 boys with Autism State Representative Jon (R - 2, Delaware), Parent of a child with AutismThere will also be an "expo" of exhibitors. For more information email askASO@... or visit our website at www.autismohio.org.

NOW OPEN! – 2008 NATTAP Conference RegistrationThe Autism Society of America (ASA) and Ohio Center for Autism and Low Incidence (OCALI) present the 2nd annual international conference on autism training and technical assistance. The objectives of the conference are to review current systems models for addressing the needs of individuals with autism spectrum disorders (ASD), promote use of best practice in research and intervention and provide methods for capacity building – all of which contribute to the ultimate goal of improving outcomes for individuals ages 3-21. Join the estimated 1,500-2,000 attendees from across the national and around the globe.NEW for 2008! Pre-Conference Sessions - November 18, 2008Pre-Conference sessions are provided by leaders and recognized experts in the field and provide attendees with a valuable opportunity for in-depth discussion and learning.What: 2008 NATTAP ConferenceWhen: November 19-21, 2008Where: Greater Columbus Convention Center | Columbus, OHEarly Bird Rate: $185Parent/Family Member Rate: $100Pre-Conference Session Rate: $100Conference registration and information available at: http://www.nattapconference.org

The Autism Society of Ohio has provided a grant to OCALI reducing the registration rate for parents from last year's $185 to $100 for all three days of the conference! Register NOW!

Autism Early Screening Pilot Update

The Ohio Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics has begun work on the Autism Early Screening Pilot! This Pilot is funding though an appropriation to the Ohio Department of Health as part of the 2008-2009 Ohio Budget passed by the General Assembly through the efforts of Rep. Bacon (R-Worthington) and the Autism Society of Ohio. The following is an update from Dan Farkas, the project manager for OAAP:

There is a new tool to help in the local fight against Autism.

The Autism Diagnosis Education Pilot Project is an 18 month program designed to create local solutions for autism care, according to Project Manager Dan Farkas. Being administered through the Ohio Chapter, American Academy of Pediatrics, the project organizers will meet with local parents, educators, direct care providers, medical professionals and administrators to to discuss timely and effective services for children with autism spectrum disorders.

From there, Medical Director Dr. Duby will lead a team of experts combining state and national data with the local information gathered to help create local solutions to improve education, awareness, and early diagnosis of autism is each of the five pilot areas, using standardized methods.

“Early diagnosis is essential to improving the quality of life and care for children with autism,†Dr. Duby said.

Autism affects 1 in 150 children. The typical time from a parent’s initial concern about their child’s development until diagnosis is one year. Dr. Duby said that year is “A lost opportunity for early intervention.â€

“Many studies now suggest that autism may be recognized even in the first year of life,†Dr. Duby said. “The earlier the disorder is found, the more likely it is that early intervention will be beneficial.â€

Farkas said the work in will also help develop a model that can be used statewide to 1) heighten public awareness of the early signs of autism, 2) improve access to developmental screening, including specific screening for autism, 3) increase coordination of medical diagnosis of autism, and 4) enhance access to evidence-based intervention services for children with autism.

The Autism Diagnosis Education Pilot Project will be tested in five counties which reflect the diverse population of Ohio. A focus group has already been held in Warren County, a rapidly growing suburban community in Southwestern Ohio. Belmont County will represent rural southeastern Ohio March 25-26. Wood County will represent a stable agricultural and university community in Northwest Ohio on April 1-2. A week later on April 8-9, northwestern lin County will represent established suburban Central Ohio. The sessions will wrap up in Cleveland May 7-8.

Experts in the field of diagnosis and treatment of autism from throughout Ohio have been brought together to assist with development and implementation of the Project. An evaluation of the implementation of the project will be designed, completed, and analyzed by the project team. The results will be disseminated to the Ohio Department of Health, the Ohio Legislature, the Governor and his Cabinet, to members of the Ohio Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics and the Ohio Primary Care Coalition, and to the communities themselves.

Those wanting to take part in any of the remaining sessions should call or e-mail Dan Farkas, Project Manager. He can be reached at (614) 846-6258 or at dfarkas@...

Medicaid Buy-In to start April 1

Ohio Receives Federal Approval for Medicaid Buy-In for Workers with DisabilitiesProgram that allows workers to work and receive Medicaid benefits to start April 1 The program allowing eligible workers with disabilities to continue receiving Medicaid benefits created last year by Governor Ted Strickland the Ohio General Assembly has received the required federal approval today according to the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services. Effective April 1, workers with disabilities earning up to 250 percent ($26,000 in 2008) of the Federal Poverty Level may pay a monthly premium to continue Medicaid coverage. “We are pleased that our federal counterparts recognized the fact that providing continued access to health care also removes what otherwise could serve a barrier to work for many individuals who have the ability and desire to take part in the working community,†ODJFS Helen -Kelley said. State legislators also expressed satisfaction that the collaborative efforts of state government and local advocates are coming to fruition. “Through this change, we are empowering thousands of Ohioans with disabilities to be able to work while maintaining their health benefits,†said State Senator Steve Stivers (R-Columbus), sponsor of the bill authorizing the program. “I view this as a win-win for the state, because not only are we incentivizing people to work, which is good for the economy, but we are providing access to health care in a fiscally responsible way.†“We in the Senate Democratic Caucus applaud the Governor for giving those with disabilities the opportunity to work without risking the loss of Medicaid coverage,†Senate Democratic Leader said. “People should not have to choose between earning and living and having access to quality, affordable health care coverage. This move ensures coverage for those who need it the most while empowering them to support themselves and more fully live the American dream.†State Representative Jon , sponsor of Medicaid Buy-In legislation in the House, noted "this program will change lives. Participants in the program will be able to live their dreams of becoming fully integrated into the workforce. This program adds a significant number of highly skilled employees to Ohio's working population." “The leadership of the Governor and the success of the budget have created this important program, which invests in the economy by strengthening families, communities and the state’s economy,†State Senator Shirley (D-Cleveland). This is a great day for workers with disabilities – the buy-in will enable them to live healthy and contribute to the vitality of Ohio’s workforce. Healthy workers create a healthy economy that in turn makes the future of our state more hopeful and prosperous for all Ohioans.†Under the program, Ohioans between the ages of 16 and 64 with a disability defined by the Social Security Administration can pay an income-based premium for Medicaid coverage. Additional information on the program is available by calling the Ohio Medicaid Consumer hotline at 1-800-324-8680. More than 2 million Ohioans receive health coverage through the state’s Medicaid program, administered by the ODJFS Office of Ohio Health Plans.

Upcoming Events, Resources, etc:

- Autism Society of Greater Cleveland Chili Cook-Off

- Dayton Autism Society's 1st annual 5K Walk and Information Expo

- Upcoming Activities Tri-County Autism Society, Youngstown Area- Sixth Annual Walk for Autism 5K, Gallipolis

- Facilitated IEP's Conference - Independence 4/22/08 Free- Resource: New Book from AAPC

- Newsletter from SensoryEdge

- Treating AS Disorders Conference - Mansfield OH

- Presidential Candidate Forum on Disability Issues, Columbus: Save the Date

- Resource: Before You Go to an IEP Meeting - Eight Ways to Get Prepared

- SMILE Summer Camp, Twinsburg

- Screening of “Including â€, Cleveland

- News from the Interactive Autism Network

- "Stop the Assault! The Three “D’s†for the ASD: Issues of Diets, Digestion, and Detoxification/Chelation for the Autism Spectrum, Brecksville

- Summer opportunities @ KidsLink, Akron

- ASA NEWS Support Autism Awareness and "Bounce for Autism" this April! Autism Advocate Focuses on Treatment-Guided Research Advocating for Autism -- Inside and Outside the Beltway United Nations Celebrates World Autism Awareness Day this April New Study Released on Autism and Financial Difficulties New Book on Autism and Friendship Released Register Now for the 2008 ASA National Conference International Conference on Self-Determination - Detroit, MI "Act Early Against Autism" a Guide for Parents PBS Kids Series Now Available on DVD New Children's Book Offers Hope

- Your Dinner Secret Announces Affordable Nationwide Shipping

- Podcast Available on Bullying

- Information on Post-Secondary Options

- COULTER VIDEO ANNOUNCES "SPIRIT OF SUPPORT" AWARDS FOR ASPERGER SYNDROME AND AUTISM COMMUNITY

- Project Med from the OSU Nisonger Center

- Upcoming ADOS Training workshop - Akron Children's Hospital

- National Autism Association Family First Grants Available

- ASPIES Greater Akron Music Therapy Meet and Greet

- The Eighth Annual Multiple Perspectives On Access, Inclusion & Disability: Looking Back & Thinking Ahead, Columbus

- Access by Design From Minimum Compliance to Universal Design, Columbus

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@...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.

Autism Society of Greater Cleveland CHILI COOK-OFF FOR AUTISM

TUESDAY APRIL 8TH6 PM TO 9 PMTERRACE CLUB OF PROGRESSIVE FIELDIN CLEVELAND, OHIO RAFFLES, SILENT AUCTIONS, DOOR PRIZES!25 DIFFERENT KINDS OF DELICIOUS CHILI¢S TO TASTE!ENTERTAINMENT THROUGOUT THE EVENING BY ACE MOLAR! ONLY $20 SUGGESTED DONATION PER TICKET TICKETS ARE AVAILABLE ONLINE!DONATIONS AND SPONSORSHIPS ARE ALSO WELCOME! Please visit WWW.ASGC.ORG for more information.

Dayton Autism Society's 1st annual 5K Walk and Information Expo

Just a friendly reminder!There's less than 5 weeks until the Dayton Autism Society's 1st annual 5K Walk and Information Expo!Register now to secure your FREE walk t-shirt!Registration is only $15/person. Register online at www.daytonautismsociety.org or request a registration form from infodaytonautismsociety (DOT) org. The form is also in the files section of the Dayton United Against Autism listserv. We will have fun, FREE activities for the kids including a moonwalk from Busy Bouncing, Bis-cuts the clown doing balloon animals, Ron Remy the Magician, and lots of fun games and activities brought to you by UDSEAT (University of Dayton Students for Effective Autism Treatment)! For the adults, we'll have vendors with autism-related information and merchandise, as well as raffles throughout the day. We will have some surprise mascots and athletes on hand to sign autographs and take photos. We'll also have concessions throughout the day with Panera bagels, Chick-Fil-A chicken sandwiches, and GF/CF choices for those on the diet. Bring your wagons and strollers and join us for the walk, or just come to the activities. If it rains, all activities will be moved inside, INCLUDING the walk! No worries, just fun for everyone!Please sign up now! When we're out of shirts, we're out of shirts! Create a team or walk solo, everyone's invited! Come out and have a great day with your family. Bernotaitisbernofamgmail(937) 859-4964 home(937) 286-5615 cellDayton Autism Societywww.daytonautismsociety.orga 501©(3) non-profit

Upcoming Activities Tri-County Autism Society

For more information on any of these activities - contact triautism@...

Bowling - Saturday- April 19, 2008 Camelot Lanes 628 Boardman-Canfield Rd Boardman, OH 44420 Time: 6:00 P.M. Pizza will be provided Please RSVP to Dan Gallagher at 330-720-2066 Email: triautism@...Or Aiello 330-799-7523 if you plan on attending Wednesday- March 19, 2008 Wednesday- April 16, 2008 Regular Meetings Officer nominations- April Time: 7:00 p.m. meeting Social: 8:30 ITAM Club- Second floor 115 S. Meridian Rd. Youngstown, OH 44509 Cedar Point Day Sponsored by: The ARC of Ohio Wednesday, May 21, 2008 RSVP: May 1, 2008 Dan Gallagher 330-720-2066 Email: triautism@... Cost: $23.00 per person Annual Golf Outing Monday June 23, 2008 More information to follow!

Sixth Annual Walk for Autism 5KAutism is a disorder that affects an estimated 1 out of 150 individuals (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention)

What:

Show your support for AutismMerchandise and resource information availableDoor Prizes, food and beverages, auctionWhen:Registration held on Saturday, April 19th at 10:00 amRegistration fee $5.00 (waived if participant has sponsors)Guest speakers @ 10:45 amWalk starts @ 11:00 amAuction starts @ 12:00 pm Door prizes during the walkWhere:Gallipolis City Park- Gallipolis, OhioFor more information:(how to obtain walk brochures)H.O.P.E. Intervention740-645-3160, 740-742-3405, or 740-388-0191Unable to attend? Send donations:HOPE InterventionPO Box 727Gallipolis OH 45631

Facilitated IEP's Conference - Independence 4/22/08 Free

The Ohio Coalition for the Education of Children with Disabilities in Collaboration with The Northeast Parent Mentors, & Special Education Services are Sponsoring a FREE Conference to learn more about Facilitated IEP's. The conference is limited to the first 250 people who register. You may register on line by going to www.ocecd.org click on ocecd activities, then click on conferences. If you have any further questions feel free to call.

Facilitated IEPs with Eva Soeka, Associate Professor of Law, Director of the Center for Dispute Resolution Marquette University and Ann Guinan, Assistant Director Procedural Safeguards Office for Exceptional Children, Ohio Department of Education

Date:

April 22, 2008 (One-day conference)

9:00 AM - 3:00 AM

Conference Fee:

Free

Registrations Due:

April 14, 2008

Location:

Sheraton Independence Hotel5300 Rockside RoadIndependence, OH 44131

Contact Person:

Connie Hudson

Contact Email:

ocecdcshembarqmail

Contact Fax:

937-842-2150

Contact Phone:

937-842-2150

Registration Mail:

165 W. Center Street, Suite 302 n, OH 43302

Conference will be limited to 250 participants. Certificate of Attendance will be available.

You can register online at www.ocecd.org

Resource: New Books from AAPC

Out and About: Preparing Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders to Participate in Their Communities by Jill Hudson and Amy Bixler Coffin

$19.95 2007, ISBN 978-1931282-48-2

Authors Amy Bixler Coffin and Jill Hudson (Amy and Jill work for OCALI!) have developed a to-the-point resource that will be used again and again by parents and educators. The focus of Out and About: Preparing Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders to Participate in Their Communities is on “the every day,†how to enable and support individuals on the autism spectrum to participate, to the maximum extent possible, in the community around them.

In this simple book, the authors provide a framework for identifying the areas where an individual with ASD may need support to participate more fully and successfully in community activities. The framework, created as a Blueprint to be filled in, depending on the child and the outing being planned, lists 10 areas identified in best practice as effective types of support for children with ASD. Areas includewaiting plan, communication, social, visual, hidden curriculum, sensory, motivation, behavior, transition, and siblings or other students.

For each area on the Blueprint, parents, teachers, coaches, family members—anybody who lives or works with the child—fills in ahead of time the support that best matches the child’s needs for a given event. The hope is that the specially designed Blueprint will become second nature to its users as they become more familiar with the areas of support the child needs in various situations. For more information, visit: http://www.asperger.net/bookstore_9991.htm

Cabins, Canoes and Campfires: Guidelines for Establishing a Camp for Children with Autism Spectrum Disordersby Jill Hudson (Jill works for OCALI!)Foreword by Myles

$19.95 2005, ISBN 1-931282-77-3

Many children with autism spectrum disorders are not able to thrive in a typical summer camp due to their unique sensory and behavioral needs. Yet, like all other kids they love the camp experience. This book presents in clear and detailed terms what it takes to put on a camp that takes into consider-ation the special needs of children on the autism spectrum. For more information, visit: http://www.asperger.net/bookstore_9949.htm

Prescription for Success: Supporting Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders in the Medical Environment.by Jill Hudson, M.S., CCLS

$24.95 2006, ISBN 1-931282-95-1Because of the unique needs of children with ASD, it is important to pay special attention to the details of their experience in the medical environment. Designed to help make the medical experience easier for all involved, this book presents information on ASD, the varying developmental levels, interventions, and assessments that medical staff, parents, educators, and key service providers can use to more effectively interact with and support children with ASD while in the medical setting. The information and techniques presented in Prescription for Success can be used by doctors, nurses, medical technicians, residents, interns, and even administrative staff to support children with ASD and their families in what can otherwise be trying circumstances. A CD at the back of the book includes forms and worksheets that can be printed and duplicated. For complete details, visit: http://www.asperger.net/bookstore_9966.htm

With Open Arms: Creating School Communities of Support for Kids with Social Challenges Using Circle of Friends, Extracurricular Activities, and Learning Teams by Schlieder, M.S.

$19.95 July 2007 ISB: 978-1-934575-00-0

“She sits alone every day in the cafeteria.â€

“His behavior annoys the other kids and no one wants to have him in their group.â€

“She can’t carry on a conversation.â€

Sound familiar? The desire to fit in and belong is universal, and at no time is this more evident than during the middle and high school years. Kids with conditions such as Asperger Syndrome, attention deficit disorder, learning disabilities, behavior disorders, as well as English language learners, often face even greater social challenges, resulting in feelings of isolation. Not only are they often ignored by peers, many are the object of teasing and even bullying. In addition, their social isolation prevents them from engaging in the numerous social interactions needed to become socially proficient.

With Open Arms: Creating School Communities of Support for Socially Challenged Kids provides practical, easy-to-use techniques for even the busiest school personnel. Using familiar case studies in an easy-to-read format, this manual provides step-by-step instructions for how to implement Circles of Friends, participation in extracurricular activities, and professional Learning Teams to create both accepting peers and staff. Written by a teacher “in the trenches,†the book includes reproducible worksheets, Learning Team and Book Club study guides, Circle meeting forms and activities, charts, and checklists … everything you need to create your own supportive community for the kids you care about. For more information, visit: http://www.asperger.net/bookstore_9994.htm

Newsletter from SensoryEdge

http://www.sensoryedge.com/

Hello from SensoryEdge. We hope you find this edition of our newsletter informative and fun. In this issue, we have included an article about an activity idea for school-aged children (or those child prodigy readers that some of you are lucky enough to have.) The activity was written by Dick and Dalene Joubert, a qualified chemical engineer and occupational therapist respectively. We also have a great new craft that shows how to make our own Rain Sticks. Article: What's The Single Most-Effective Child Learning Activity? What is the best child learning activity you can think of? But there is one catch... this child learning activity must do all of the following: Be quick and easy to do, cheap, able to occupy children for a reasonable time AND must definitely help to improve reading and learning skills, concentration, general knowledge, observation, ability to seek information and focus on detail. You won't find many child learning activities that can do this. Surprisingly enough... there IS one! It's called... The Amazing Newspaper Activity Here's how easy it is: Find any newspaper and give it to your child. Ask your child the following about the newspaper 1. What is the main headline? 2. How many pages in the paper? 3. Name all the colors on (say) page 3 4. On page 3, write down five words starting with a "d" 5. Copy any ad 6. Write down the names and surnames of any three people mentioned in the paper 7. On what page is (say) the weather summary or the sports scores? An effective child learning activity teaches kids a number of learning skills at the same time. Not only does this child learning activity do this, but it also uses the skills to copy a true learning situation. Most important of all, regardless of how easy this child learning activity is, you'll be pleasantly surprised by the terrific results it brings.

Educational-Toy-Guide.com Dick & Dalene Joubert PO Box 438, Trichardt 2300, South Africa Tel: +27-17-6380367 Fax: +27-17-6311442 Email: admin@... 2003 OnlyPlaying (Pty)Ltd. All rights reserved Activity of the Month: Make your Own Rain Sticks Children love the sound of rain and splashing in the rain puddles when it is all over. With a Rain Stick they can recreate the sound themselves over and over again! My children made these Rain Sticks in preschool and they adored them. Materials: Here is what you will need for each Rain Stick: 1. One tube from a paper towel 2. Strips of cardboard 3. 1 piece of sturdy paper (or two if it is easier for your child) 4. Tape 5. 1/4 cup rice 6. 2 Tablespoons of seeds or beans, popcorn, dried peas, or lentils (work best because they are small but heavier than the rice) Instructions: Using a cereal bowl (or other handy circular object) have your child trace two 4-inch circles on a piece of paper. Once they trace the circles, have them cut the circles out using safety scissors (they might need some assistance with this). Then, have your child lay one paper circle on the table and put a tube on the paper so that the paper is covering one of the tube ends. Hold the tube in place while your child folds up the paper. Then have them hold the paper while you secure the tape. Make sure you tape it well enough so that the filling doesn't escape! The next step is to cut and insert the cardboard strips. First cut them into 1 inch strips. You can use a ruler to draw the lines and then have your child cut them using the safety scissors. Once you have the strips, fold them back and forth like a fan and then put them into the tube one at a time. Make sure each one gets to the bottom before you add the next one. Fill the tube up to the top with cardboard strips and t hen pour the rice and seeds into the tube. Once filled, you can put the second paper circle on top and tape it up like you did the first one. Don't forget to let your child do as much of the work as he or she can. Finally, decorate your rain stick using paint, markers, and/or stickers. You can also glue little treasures to it like feathers, glitter, confetti, pom poms or anything that your imagination desires. If you think it will be easier for your child, they can decorate the sticks before they are filled or even before you put it together by coloring the tube and paper prior to assembly. Learning & Emotions:

As always, we want to remind parents that activities are not just about the craft you are producing but about the experience for you and your child or children. As you make this rain stick with your child, talk to them and narrate the activity. Describe what you are doing and tell them why in clear simple terms. This will help introduce them to new vocabulary words and give them concrete visual explanations of these new words. Show them the symbols and words for the measurements. Maybe you can have a theme and use it as in introduction to a lesson about art, or the fourth of July. If they are too young for pre-reading skills, you can re-create the recipe with simple pictures to give them the idea of following directions. You can talk about the ingredients and what you are doing with them. Vocabulary word ideas: Tube Paper Scissors Tape Cut(ting) Pouring Add (ing) Measure Rice Shake Decorate Color names - as you decorate the Rain Stick with paint or markers, talk about the different colors, and have your child name the colors. If you child is older, you can make a game of having the child spell the color before they can add it to the stick. Warning Please use these instructions responsibly. The scissors and ingredients should only be used with adult supervision. Also, please note that this should not be left where infants or toddlers can play with them unattended. The rice or peas might escape if the tube is not taped sufficiently. Further, although the ingredients are edible this is not a food item and you should watch that the seeds and rice are not ingested. Parents or Caretakers please supervise your children with this activity and the finished product. Thank you. Developmental Health Watch One issue that can develop with young children is an inability to cross the midline. This means that a child will not take their hands or arms across the center of their body. For example, if you are holding something in your left hand and you want to pick something up off your desk that is on your left you generally use your right hand to reach across and pick it up. Children who have trouble crossing their midline will either not reach for it, scream, or if you are lucky they will simply change hands or put the original object down. It is good to encourage children to develop this skill early because it helps them develop the connections between the left & right sides of their brain. To promote this skill get your child to reach for objects just outside their grasp, or have them draw a line vertically down a piece of paper and have them color the left side with their right hand. Using the Rain Stick activity, have them hold the paper down while they cut around from one side to the other. You can also put on some music and get them to do a dance as you cross your left hand to the right side of the body and vice versa. Then get them to do it with their feet. For a change of pace, try this with paper streamers. You can also hand them materials in such a way as to get them to exercise this basic but important skill.

Thanks,

See you next time.

We will never rent, share or sell your name to anyone else . . . ever! We respect your privacy!

SensoryEdge8469 Canoga AveCanoga ParkCA 91304United States

Treating AS Disorders Conference - Mansfield OH

Autism Spectrum Disorders - an Integrative Approach to Successful Therapies and Treatmentshttp://www.greatplainslaboratory.com/Conference/Ohio-2008/Register'>http://www.greatplainslaboratory.com/Conference/Ohio-2008/Register today for this excellent opportunity to learn about the various biomedical treatmentoptions available to treat autism spectrum disorders (ASD), AD(H)D and other neurodevelopmentaldisordersAt the conference, we will be discussing educational, social and biomedical ASD issues:· The role of micro-organisms in gastrointestinal tract· Heavy metal toxicity and chelation therapies· The role of metabolic abnormalities and immune deficiencies· Food allergies and special dietary interventions· Nutritional supplements and their use in treatment· ASD Social and Friendship skills· Future planning for your ASD child· Prioritizing therapies for those with developmental delays and ASDPLUS: Introducing the role of Low Cholesterol as a new factor in Autism Spectrum Disorders!SCHEDULEDay 1: Saturday, March 29th8:00 - 8:30Registration & Exhibits8:30 - 8:45Welcome & Introductions8:45 - 10:00Dr. Shaw “Multi-factorial Causes of Autismâ€10:00 - 10:15Question & Answer & Outreach Clinic Announcement / Information10:15 - 10:30Break & Exhibits10:30 - 11:45 C. Demio MD “Biomedical Treatment Options for Autism Spectrum Disorders(ASD)â€11:45 - 12:00Question & Answer12:00 - 1:00Lunch & Exhibits1:00 - 2.15Lori Knowles “A Mother’s Success Story - How I Recovered My Childâ€2:15 - 3:30 Doyle Inland (Author of Autism Spectrum from A to Z) “The Impact of ASDâ€3:30 - 4:00Break & Exhibits4:00 - 5:15 Lemer, M.Ed., NCC, M.S. Bus “Prioritizing Therapies: Treating causes notsymptomsâ€5:15 - 5:30Question & Answer5:30 - 6:00Exhibit Viewing

Day 2: Sunday, March 30th8:00 - 8:30Registration & Exhibits8:30 - 10:00Dr. Shaw “Scientific Breakthroughs - Promising New Treatmentsâ€10:00 - 10:15Break & Exhibits10:15 - 11:45Lori Knowles “Navigating the Maze of Nutritional Supplementsâ€11:45 - 12:45Lunch & Exhibits12:45 - 2:30 Champlin “The Application of Evidenced-Based Pro-Social Skills, BehaviorReduction Strategies and Socio-Dramatic Play for Children on the Autism Spectrum TargetAudience: Parents/Caregivers and Teachersâ€2:30 - 2:45Break & Exhibits2:45 - 4:00Dr. Shaw “Heavy Metals & Other Chemical Toxicitiesâ€4:00 - 5:15 Doyle Inland (Author of Autism Spectrum from A to Z) “Supporting Socializationand Friendships – An explanation for social difficulties seen in ASDâ€5:15 - 5:30Question & Answer*Schedule and speakers are subject to change at any time without noticeLocation:DEER RIDGEGOLF CLUB900 Comfort Plaza DriveBellville, OH 44813AccommodationsHotel Accommodations:Special room rates have been made at two hotels under the name “Mansfield AutismConferenceâ€$99 per night/plus tax at the Comfort Inn Splash HarborFor reservation call 800-472-3813; website: www.splashharbor.com$72 per night/plus tax at the Quality Inn & SuitesFor reservation call 888-445-2255; website: www.qualityinnbellville.comAirport Travel Options:1. Port Columbus International Airport (CMH) Airport is 59 miles from Deer Ridge Golf Club4600 International Gateway, Columbus, Ohio 432192. Cleveland Hopkins International Airport (CLE) Airport is 75 miles from Deer Ridge Golf Club5300 Riverside Dr., Cleveland, Ohio 44135

SpeakersDr. Shaw received a Ph.D. in biochemistry and human physiology from the MedicalUniversity of South Carolina. He is board certified in the fields of clinical chemistry and toxicologyby the American Board of Clinical Chemistry. He has supervised large endocrinology, nutritionalbiochemistry, and toxicology and immunology departments in positions at the Center for DiseaseControl (CDC) and Kline Laboratories in Atlanta. He was Director of Clinical Chemistry,Endocrinology and Toxicology at Children's Mercy Hospital, the teaching hospital of theUniversity of Missouri at Kansas City School of Medicine. Dr. Shaw is now the Director of TheGreat Plains Laboratory, in Lenexa, Kansas specializing in testing for autism spectrum disorders,metabolic disorders in adults and children, PDD, and AD(H)D and has authored the book“Biological Treatments for Autism and PDDâ€. He is the stepfather of a child with autism and hashelped thousands of parents and physicians successfully contribute to improving the lives ofautistic children.

S. Lemer is a co-founder and the Executive Director of Developmental Delay Resources(DDR), an international, non-profit organization integrating conventional and holistic approachesfor children with developmental delays. She holds a Masters of Education in counseling andlearning disabilities from Boston College and a Masters in Business from s HopkinsUniversity. Ms. Lemer is a National Certified Counselor, and practiced as an educationaldiagnostician for over 30 years. She lives in Pittsburgh, PA.Ms. Lemer lectures internationally on prioritizing therapies for those with developmental delaysand autism spectrum disorders. Author of many articles, including Attention Deficits: ADevelopmental Approach and Autism Spectrum Disorders: Treating Causes, Not Symptoms. Shediscourages labeling of children, and specializes in combining developmentally appropriatepractice with sound theory. She is especially interested in combining a biomedical approach withvision and other movement and sensory-based therapies. For more information about please visittheir website at <www.devdelay.org>

Lori Knowles is a mother of a recovered child and General Manager of New BeginningsNutritionals. She is a frequent speaker on biomedical interventions to parents and professionalsat autism conferences around the world. Over the past five years, she has worked closely withDr. Shaw, PhD to create New Beginnings Nutritionals, a cutting edge nutritionalsupplement company that supports the unique needs of children with autism. She collaborateswith physicians, naturopaths, scientists, autism researchers and parents in order to create adiverse product line that parents and physicians can trust. Lori enjoys drawing from both herextensive research, professional and personal experience in recovering her own child to supportparents and practitioners seeking answers to improve the lives of children affected with autism.

C. DeMio, M.D. is the father of a child with autism, and has been an M.D. for over twentyyears. He graduated from the Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine with honorsin metabolism, women and children’s health, and neurosciences. Prior to medical school hetaught and worked in the organic chemistry laboratory at Creighton University in OmahaNebraska. He is an author of medical topics including alternative and conventional medicine, andis accredited for speaking at several national conferences on medical topics including braintoxicology, nutrition, and use of supplements in health and disease for children and adults. Heattends the Defeat Autism Now! conference every year and has served in the Defeat Autism Now!think tank. Dr. DeMio’s philosophy is that our children and loved ones are first and foremost in allof our treatments.

Chamlin is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst who owns and operates Autism Concepts,Inc. Ms. Champlin is the Executive Director of ACI Learning Centers in Lenexa, Kansas andEdmond, Oklahoma serving children with Autism Spectrum Disorders and developmental delays.She has over 25 years of teaching experience working with children of all ages with autism anddevelopmental disabilities. Ms. Champlin is a certified elementary education teacher and holds aMA in Learning Disabilities and certification in Early Childhood Special Education. Ms. Champlinhas lectured and trained professionals and parents internationally on Applied Behavior Analysisincorporating B.F. Skinner’s analysis of verbal behavior.

Ms. Champlin’s area of expertise is teaching evidenced-based interventions for social interactionand play skills for children with autism. Social Skills groups are conducted to teach children withASD to interact with typical peers. Ms. Champlin has created and designed PlayTubs® to teachchildren how to engage in socio-dramatic play. She works collaboratively with parents and thechild’s school to apply behavioral principles for reduction of inappropriate behaviors in both homeand community.

Iland, M.A. is the co-author of Autism Spectrum Disorders from A to Z, which draws on herexperiences advocating for her son Tom who has ASD, and assisting other families. She is amember of the Transition Task Force of the California Blue Ribbon Commission on Autism. Is theSecretary of the ASA of Los Angeles, and a founding member of SCAAN (Santa Clarita AutismAsperger Network), and is a founding member of CLEAR (Community and Law EnforcementAware Response). She currently works with the University of Minnesota’s Institute on Community

Integration and The Bubel Aiken Foundation to develop curriculum for an Inclusive ServiceLearning program for students. As the California State Representative of the Yes I Can Programfor Social Inclusion, has trained staff and families to help teens with developmentaldisabilities make friends and have fun. She received a Master’s Degree in Special Education withdistinction at California State University, Northridge in summer, 2007 and was the O.Friedman Outstanding Graduate Student of the Year. received a B.A. degree, summa cumlaude, from Marquette University and is a member of Phi Beta Kappa. is a 2003 graduate ofthe City of Santa Clarita/College of the Canyons Community Leadership Program and receivedthe 2005 Community Service Award from the City.HOW TO REGISTER1. Register online at www.greatplainslaboratory.com2. Register by Mail: Mansfield, Ohio 2008 Conferencec/o Rory , 11813 W. 77th St. Lenexa, Kansas 66214 USA3. Register by phone: 1-800-288-0383 or (913) 341-8949 at The Great Plains Laboratory4. Register by fax: (913) 341-6207 at The Great Plains Laboratory (please confirm fax receipt)CONFERENCE FEES:$ 129 US - SINGLE$ 189 US - COUPLEEARLY BIRD – 50% DISCOUNT (applies if register before January 15th 2008)GROUP DISCOUNT – 25% DISCOUNT (by Registering 10 or more - $96.75 per person ingroup)SubtotalX Multiply appropriate fee by # of registrationsTOTAL*THE CONFERENCE FEE IS NON-REFUNDABLEFEE INCLUDES HANDOUTS, LUNCH & REFRESHMENTShttp://www.greatplainslaboratory.com/Conference/Ohio-2008/

Presidential Candidate Forum on Disability Issues

Save the DateFEEL THE POWER OF THE DISABILITY VOTE!Celebrate the 18th Anniversary of the ADA at a Presidential Candidate Forumon Disability IssuesSaturday, July 26, 2008Veteran's Memorial, Columbus, OHFree! Everyone Welcome!Hosted by: Ohio Disability Vote Coalition, Ohio Olmstead Task Force and major national sponsors. (NOTE: the Autism Society of Ohio has participated in the Ohio Disability Vote Coalition)Additional information will be posted at www.ohioolmstead,org as it becomes available.

Resource: Before You Go to an IEP Meeting - Eight Ways to Get Prepared

Article from the internet, AboutAutism.com - http://specialchildren.about.com/od/ieps/bb/beforeIEP.htm

SMILE Summer Camp

SMILE Summer Camp

Tue Mar 11, 2008 12:18 pm (PDT)

Hello,Hope all is well.I am letting you know about my summer program, 'SMILE Summer Camp' designed to meet the needs of children with Autism and related disabilities. It is a week-long program of speech-language therapy, fun, and social interactions in daily community outings! Check out my website for details. http://hollyreimannslp.com/summercamp.htmlNOTE: * Teens: The week for teens will be open to those who are 18, I know for a few of you this is important since on the website it states through 17 years of age. * All campers will receive a SMILE Summer Camp t-shirt!DISCOUNT: * Current clients will receive a 10% discount, as it states on the website in the Schedule table! Please feel free to contact me with any questions.Best, Holly Reimann, MA CCC-SLP Speech-language Pathologist http://hollyreimannslp.com Email: infohollyreimannslp 267-259-6461

Screening of “Including â€

On April 14th, 2008, CMR/The Arc of Cuyahoga County is presenting a screening of “Including †a documentary film by Dan Habib, a professional photojournalist and a parent of a child with a disability. Mr. Habib is a six-time New Hampshire photographer of the year. His freelance work has appeared in many publications, including Time, Newsweek, & The New York Times. His documentary film, “Including â€, examines the educational and social inclusion of youth with disabilities. The film was named “Best Documentary†of the 2007 Somewhat North of Boston Film Festival, it won the annual Positive Images in Media award from TASH, and has been featured on NPR’s All Things Considered, as well as the Washington Post, and Boston Globe. For Complete details, contact: MitchnerEducation SpecialistCMR/The Arc of Cuyahoga County1331 Euclid Ave.Cleveland, OH 44115Phone: 216-622-0755Fax: 216-622-0752Email: gmitchner@... Website: www.cmr-cleveland.org

News from the Interactive Autism Network

Dear Members of the IAN Community,

Welcome to the March 2008 edition of the IAN Community E-Newsletter. Thousands of families participating in IAN Research have provided information on the treatments they are using for their children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). In our February 2008 Research Report, we present initial findings, with a special focus on speech and language therapy.

In a separate article, we report on occupational and sensory integration therapies as well.

Also featured are two new articles on adults with ASD. The first examines how behavioral interventions once thought useful only for young children also are effective for adults. The second explores the challenges faced by adults with autism as they enter the world of employment. This newsletter highlights only a few of the new articles, discussions, and preliminary research findings available on our website, so be sure to visit us at www.iancommunity.org.

Read and enjoy!

The IAN Team

"Stop the Assault! The Three “D’s†for the ASD: Issues of Diets, Digestion, and Detoxification/Chelation for the Autism Spectrum

The Greater Cleveland Biomedical Support Group and NAA-NEO invites you to its next meeting on

March 25 at 7 pm - 9:30 pm

Where: Brecksville Community Center (1 Community Drive, Brecksville)

by C. DeMio, MD and Shoemaker

Abstract: The vast majority of persons on the Autism Spectrum (ASD) who make significant gains from biomedical treatments will require care that addresses the triad of dietary intervention, digestive/gastrointestinal problems, and detoxification techniques (such as chelation). Thus an understanding of the three “D’s†is paramount to the success of the biomedical approach for virtually all patients. This discussion will include the major aspects of these three areas, and how this leads to insights into the biomedical basis of symptoms and treatment of the ASD. Learning objectives:

Dietary Intervention: Practical implementation of treatment programs will be given, including such diets as gluten-free/casein-free, specific carbohydrate, low oxalate, pigment restriction (eg,phenols and salicylates), and others. Particular situations in which one diet would be chosen over another will be highlighted.

Digestive and gastrointestinal (GI): Topics will touch upon overgrowth of yeast and other dysbioses (abnormal GI germs), leaky gut, abdominal pain, chewing problems, swallowing difficulties, acid reflux, diarrhea, constipation, malabsorption of nutritional substances, and how these all connect to symptoms in our children and adults with spectrum disorders.

Detoxification: An often misunderstood phenomenon, detoxification will be described. Our patients and loved ones on the spectrum often suffer from toxicity via a variety of substances that originate from such entities as vaccines to dental metals to environmental sources. Mercury, aluminum, and other known toxins cause many of the maladies experienced by our patients. Chelation techniques and other approaches will be presented, and goals will be outlined.

Pls RSVP to at egerpatt@... or 216-544-1231 by March 23rd

Summer opportunities @ KidsLink

We will be having a free lecture on summer programs at KidsLink this Sunday at 2pm. Representatives from several camps will be present and we will discuss a variety of other residential and daycamp options in the area, as well as tips for summer scheduling at home. We will also go over grant opportunities. At KidsLink, we will be offering a 5 week "Buddy Day Camp" for preschoolers with autism spectrum disorders and peer models. We also have an eight week, one day per week "Asperger Adventure" daycamp for tweens and teens. Check out www.kidslinkohio.com for directions.

ASA NEWSSupport Autism Awareness and "Bounce for Autism" this April!ASA and Pump It Up, the nation's largest and fastest-growingfranchise of giant indoor inflatable playgrounds for private parties,are pleased to announce the launch of "Bounce for Autism,"a new nationwide, community-based fundraising event that combinesfamily fun with raising awareness and support for autism. Read more:http://www.autism-society.org/site/R?i=Ut6Sh6Q0XASVHELlbStL-w.. Autism Advocate Focuses on Treatment-Guided ResearchThe year's first edition of the Autism Advocate featuresarticles about treatment-guided research from leading minds in thescientific and medical fields. Our guest editor is Dr. Martha Herbert,Assistant Professor at Harvard University and MassGeneral, anddirector of ASA's Treatment-Guided Research Initiative. Readmore: http://www.autism-society.org/site/R?i=kTkcei7excpU9tUjx02aIQ..Advocating for Autism -- Inside and Outside the BeltwayThe Autism Society of America hosted its Day on the Hill this week,with advocates from across the country storming Capitol Hill tosupport ASA's legislative priorities. The program included arousing speech from the Chair of the Coalition for Autism Research andEducation (Autism Caucus), (R-NJ), and legislative updatesfrom Congressional staff, allies in the disability community and othersupporters. Participants also received training on effective advocacystrategies, working with the media, and lobbying at the state andlocal levels. Armed with these tools, participants then took toCapitol Hill to build support for ASA's legislative priorities.Read more: http://www.autism-society.org/site/R?i=6g1laXUTBV09QPkYHtZcgw.. United Nations Celebrates World Autism Awareness Day this AprilIn December 2007, the nation of Qatar introduced a resolution tocommemorate World Autism Awareness Day on April 2. The resolutionpassed and the United Nations' Department of Public Informationand several autism organizations from around the world will celebratethis first World Autism Awareness Day with book signings, pressconferences, seminars and briefings in New York the first week ofApril. Read more: http://www.autism-society.org/site/R?i=qY11XUlqorFIzodpV7PADw.. New Study Released on Autism and Financial DifficultiesA new study from the University of Missouri's College of HumanEnvironmental Sciences took a look at the financial struggles thatoften arise after a family's child is diagnosed with autism. Itfound that the costs of specialized child care, speech therapy andspecial interventions such as Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA) can bean unexpected drain on a family's financial resources. Read more:http://www.autism-society.org/site/R?i=J4atRBmAaz6vCUC5KaXSwQ.. New Book on Autism and Friendship ReleasedJoanna Keating-Velasco's new book, "A Is for Autism, F is for Friend: AKid's Book on Making Friends with a Child Who Has Autism", illustratesthe importance of breaking down barriers to pave the way for uniquefriendships between children, explaining a complex disability in a waythat kids can understand. Read more:http://www.autism-society.org/site/R?i=3rpbTYsXkrZ8y5fZYr0rbw.. Register Now for the 2008 ASA National ConferenceJuly 9 -12, 2008, at the Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Centerin Orlando, FloridaExhibitingOver 80 companies have signed up to sponsor and/or exhibit during theAnnual Conference and Expo July 9-12, in Orlando FL. To join them,visit www.autism-society.org/conference today or contact Meg at302.260.9487 or ellacott@.... 2008 Keynoters Hendren, DO: Executive Director, M.I.N.D. Institute, Universityof California-Jim Ball, EdD, BCBA: President, JB Consulting; Co-Chair, ASA Panel ofProfessional AdvisorsTemple Grandin, PhD: Professor, Colorado State UniversityPre-Conference Sessions: Wednesday, July 9There will be nine pre-conference sessions at this year's conferenceincluding a DAN! Clinician Seminar.General SessionsThere will be over 150 general sessions with over 200 speakers fromaround the U.S. and internationally. A detailed schedule with speakersand content information will be posted atwww.autism-society.org/conference in March.For more information, go to www.autism-society.org/conference. Tocontact the ASA National Conference Department, call 301.657.0881,ext. 10, or e-mail conference@.... International Conference on Self-Determination - Detroit, MIThe Center for Self Determination is presenting the InternationalConference on Self-Determination May 27-29, 2008, at the DetroitMarriott Renaissance Center in Detroit, Michigan. Read more:http://www.autism-society.org/site/R?i=FoYPS-_EjTMbPPY2wtZF9w.. "Act Early Against Autism" a Guide for ParentsJayne Lytel was a successful syndicated columnist when her son Leo was diagnosed with autism. Using her reporting skills to better understand her son's health issues, she helped Leo gain essential abilities. "Act Early Against Autism" is a practical and empowering guide for parents on how early intervention can change their child's future. Read more:http://www.autism-society.org/site/R?i=MqqgWzS6JGfnqQnITM_KXw.. PBS Kids Series Now Available on DVDCreated by the mother of a child with ASD and distributed by GeniusProducts, the DVD series titled "Spectrum Connections Bounce" isdesigned specifically for children on the autism spectrum. The sixhigh-quality entertainment DVDs stimulate and engage children on thespectrum of autism and related disorders. Classes are led by musictherapist and gifted singer, Balzano, and her bouncy,lovable friend Balloo. Read more:http://www.autism-society.org/site/R?i=ZXUGTzwidXAGttftIcx72g..

New Children's Book Offers HopeA new book written by Loren Presley, a young individual withautism and chronic depression, tells an interesting story for youngpeople--and the young at heart--about how to overcome thegreatest of life's trials. Titled "The Anastasia Project", thisenjoyable story of a space program dolphin that becomes stranded onanother planet aims to give hope to people overwhelmed by difficultyand feeling caught in a struggle between lasting joy and ultimatedespair. Read more:http://www.autism-society.org/site/R?i=Zuxe8mAuvaNxtiFPjcjTZQ..

Your Dinner Secret Announces Affordable Nationwide Shipping With The Exploding National Need For Gluten-Free, Casein-Free Food, Gfmeals Makes It Easy For Families To Feed Their Children The Foods That Help Them Recover From Autism

www.gfMeals.com

March 11, 2008…The nation’s first source for frozen, ready-to-cook gluten-free, casein-free (GFCF) entrees, sides and baked goods is now available through www.gfMeals.com. Your Dinner Secret, Inc. has launched the new gfMeals brand to meet this rapidly-growing need. “Food can be shipped nationwide from our new warehouse in the middle of the country at a reasonable shipping cost,†says Roni Piterman, co-owner of Your Dinner Secret. Roni’s own son has suffered for years from ADHD. He was on Ritalin to allow him to focus in school. Nine months ago she switched him to the GFCF diet and took him off of Ritalin. “The results were dramatic,†notes Roni. “Within 48 hours we saw significant improvement in my son’s ability to focus. At Your Dinner Secret, it’s our mission to help gluten and casein-intolerant individuals live a healthier life. I counsel moms daily on starting their children on a GFCF diet. I hope that our delicious food helps thousands around the country.†About Your Dinner SecretYour Dinner Secret provides gluten-free, casein-free meals for the autism, aspergers, ADHD and celiac communities, as well as for people with food allergies or just looking for a healthy diet of organic produce, all-natural meat and nothing artificial. Place your order today at www.gfMeals.com. Ask us any questions at info@....

Podcast Available on Bullying

This is part one of a two-part podcast on the issue of bullying as it relates to children on the spectrum. This podcast provides a clear definition -- according to experts in the field -- of bullying, how to identify bullies, the causes of bullying and more. The Autism and Bullying - Part One podcast examines what the research done by Dr. Jeanne Van Cleave, MD, Dr. M. , MD, Dr. L. Schor, M.D., Dr. Raine, Ph.D. and Dr. Sara Jaffee, Ph.D. has revealed on this topic. Autism and Bullying - Part One Our latest podcast has been uploaded. Feel free to download it to your hard drive or to listen to it by streaming it directly from the site. The podcasts on autism that MIDNIGHT IN CHICAGO issues are done as a public service to the community, and are FREE to download or stream.DATE: Available for listening now TIME: Anytime of day LOCATION: Click on the link below. PREVIOUS PODCASTS: http://mic.mypodcast.com/ Current Episode: Autism and Bullying - Part One Are you interested in hearing a podcast on a topic we haven't covered to date? Feel free to email Elyse at bruce@.... Sincerely, Elyse Bruce Midnight In Chicagoemail: bruce@... phone: 705-745-8119 web: http://www.midnightinchicago.com

Information on Post-Secondary Options

For juniors and seniors, now is the time to learn all you can about colleges, vocational and career schools. Visit campuses. Get a head start on college applications.This time of year also marks the beginning of the college financial aid season. The current issue of the Special Ed Advocate provides loads of resources, in-depth information guides about financial aid, and good advice about planning for the transition to further education.

Special Education / EducationTests and Measurements for the Parent, Teacher, Advocate & AttorneyCollege: Continuing and Higher EducationLoans, Scholarships, and Financial Aid for StudentsPaper Trails, Letter Writing and Documentation

Find all this info at: http://www.wrightslaw.com/

COULTER VIDEO ANNOUNCES "SPIRIT OF SUPPORT" AWARDS FOR ASPERGER SYNDROME AND AUTISM COMMUNITYFor Immediate Release: Thursday, March 13, 2008Winston-Salem, NC -- Coulter Video today announced an awards program to recognize outstanding support for people who have Asperger Syndrome or autism. The company will confer two "Spirit of Support" awards on Wednesday, April 30, 2008, selecting the recipients from candidates nominated in essays 300 to 500 words in length. Each of the winning candidates will receive a complete set of Coulter Video DVDs, consisting of nine programs supporting people with Asperger Syndrome or autism. Entries must be submitted by Monday, April 14, 2008. Those wishing to nominatecandidates can find more information on the company's website:www.coultervideo.com.

Project Med from the OSU Nisonger Center

Project MED" (Medical Education for Consumers) was created with funding from the U.S. Administration on Developmental Disabilities. The goal of project MED is to provide patients with information, in a manner that they can understand, about the medications that they are taking. The booklets are designed for a broad group of people taking medications: people with mental retardation, autism, or reading difficulties, patients with severe mental illness, child and adolescent patients, and people whose first language is not English. By providing this information, we hope to increase each patient's participation in his or her own health care.

Visit: http://www.projectmed.org/

Upcoming ADOS Training workshop - Akron Children's Hospital

I wanted to let you know about an upcoming workshop that I am organizinghere at Akron Children's for training professionals in the use of theAutism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS). This training isappropriate for speech-language pathologists, psychologists and selectspecial educators who are licensed in their fields and have priorexperience in testing children. It is not for parents or others, as thepublisher of the test, who is sponsoring the workshop, is selective on whois trained, so that the measure (which is well recognized and respected byphysicians, for example), is applied appropriately. It is very useful indifferentially diagnosing autism spectrum disorders, Asperger's Syndrome,language disorders or other behaviors which may explain autism spectrumbehaviors. Please let me know if there is anyone who would like abrochure. Registration numbers will be limited. It will be held on August7th and 8th here at the Children's. Thanks so much!

Amy Nebel-Gould, M.S., CCC-SLPSpeech-Language PathologistDepartment of Rehabilitation ServicesAkron, Ohio 44308(330) 543-8649

anebel-gould@...

2nd Annual Conference on Educating Children with Asperger's & ADHD

The Motivation Breakthrough: 6 Secrets to Turning On the Tuned-Out Child featuring RICK LAVOIE

Sponsored by Summit Academy InstituteFriday, April 25th, 2008Sheraton Suites - Akron/Cuyahoga Falls

For Complete information, click here.

National Autism Association Family First Grants Available

WE ARE NOW ACCEPTING GRANT APPLICATIONS FOR OUR FAMILY FIRST PROGRAM. BASED ON QUALIFICATIONS, GRANTS CAN NOW BE USED FOR LOCAL, FACE-TO-FACE MARRIAGE COUNSELING.PLEASE SUBMIT ALL APPLICATIONS BEFORE JUNE 15TH, 2008.

FAMILY FIRST PROGRAMThe divorce rate within the autism community has been creeping up for quite some time. With the explosion in autism cases comes many more challenges with couples in our community. Family First was launched to provide couples within our community a way to access counseling on a 24/7 basis.

ASPIES Greater Akron Music Therapy Meet and Greet

Support Group assisting parents of children withAsperger Syndrome, high functioning Autism, and PDD/NOS In conjunction with Kitrael Chin of Hope, Love and Music, Inc. will present another MEET & GREET Bring your child to group night Come enjoy the fun & fellowship. Kitrael will give a brief talk on the benefits of Music Therapy. Considine Professional Building (across from Akron Children's Hospital Main Entrance)Floor 2 - Rooms 5 & 6 Tuesday, March 18th6:30 - 8:30 pm Light Refreshments will be served. For further information, contactJoy Spencer 330-745-5115 Rreindeer@...

For complete information, visit http://www.nationalautismassociation.org/familyfirst.php

Access by Design From Minimum Compliance to Universal DesignMonday April 21, 2008, 2:00 p.m. - 5:30 p.m. Registration Open

http://mpconference.osu.edu/

AIA CEU's Pending

For years the charge to meet accessibility requirements was treated as a code compliance issue to be addressed at the end of the design process. Today the call is to ensure seamless access that not only meets the needs of increasingly diverse users but welcomes them.

A discussion of the mandate to provide basic access will provide a foundation for a tour of the various standards for access and their interrelationships (ANSI, UFAS, ADAAG, Fair Housing, ADA Standard for Accessible Design) and proposed changes. Examples drawn from experience and selected settlement agreements resulting from court cases and enforcement agency initiatives will provide a context for exploring the principles of Universal Design; an approach to planning that embraces diversity and inclusion by providing for equitable use while promoting efficiency, flexibility and sustainability.

Topics Include:

Key Standards, Their Interrelationships and Coverage Equivalent Facilitation & Structural Infeasibility Readily Achievable Barrier Removal & Program Access Internal and External Compliance Audits Most Common Compliance Errors Principles of Universal Design

Extensive reference materials including copies of enforceable standards, check lists, and training materials will be provided in an on-line format.$150 registration fee ($100 OSU/OSUMC Faculty/Staff).

Facilitator L. Lissner

L. Lissner has served as the ADA Coordinator for The Ohio State University since 2000 where he is an Associate of the Glenn School of Public Policy and serves as an adjunct instructor for the Moritz College of Law, the Knowlton School of Architecture and Disability Studies. His teaching informs and energizes his role as the university’s compliance officer and as a clearing house for disability related policy and initiatives. An active member and officer in professional associations he serves on the Boards of Directors for ADA-OHIO and the Association on Higher Education And Disability; The Editorial Boards for ’s 504 Compliance Manual and the Journal of Postsecondary Education & Disability. Lissner publishes, presents, and consults frequently on disability issues. Recent publications include “Universal Design in the Institutional Setting: Weaving a Philosophy into Campus Planning†in Universal Design: From Accessibility to Zoning (J. Cowley- & J. Nasser (Eds.) and “From Legal Principle to Informed Practice†with J. E. Jarrow.Preconference Registration Fees

Access by Design --

The Eighth Annual

Multiple Perspectives On Access, Inclusion & Disability:

Looking Back & Thinking Ahead

Registration Now Open

http://mpconference.osu.edu/

Pre-conference April 21 - Full Conference April 22-23, 2008

The Ohio State University Columbus, Ohio

Over 30 Concurrent Sessions -

Presenters Include: Wodatch, U.S.DOJ; Novak, Unit. of San Francisco; Ben , Landmark College; Bruggemann, Ohio State University; Janet s, Great Lakes DBTAC; Mark Willis, State; Jaina Blakford, Lerner School For Autism; Steve Noble, Design Science; Parrey, University of Illinois at Chicago; Munger, University of Illinois at Chicago L. Lissner, Ohio State University; U.S. Dept. of Education, EEOC; Ohio Civil Rights Commission, and more

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