Fw: September 2010 Monthly Featured Products Promoting Independence & Vocational Resources

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----- Forwarded Message ----To: deniseslist@...Sent: Wed, September 1, 2010 9:18:28 AMSubject: September 2010 Monthly Featured Products Promoting Independence & Vocational Resources

Monthly Newsletter

for

Autism Resource Center

of South Florida.com

and

Autism Teaching Tools.net

September 2010

This Month!

Vocational Resources &

Working Together to Promote Independence

for Children, Adolescents & Adults with ASD's

ARCOFSF Member Announcements

Check out ARCOFSF's newly added resource category:

For access please click on the link below

Vocational Resources for persons with disabilities

or you may cut and paste the link below into your web browser:

http://www.autismresourcecenterofsouthflorida.com/resources/categories.php?id=54

Be sure to scroll down on this page to view all options for searching vocational resources.

MARK YOUR CALENDAR: SATURDAY, NOV. 6, 2010, FVDD STATEWIDE CONFERENCE @ NORTH BROWARD MEDICAL CENTER, POMPANO BEACH, FL

Florida's Voice on Developmental Disabilities is hosting its annual statewide conference at North Broward Medical Center in Pompano Beach, Florida, on Saturday, November 6, 2010, from 9 AM to 5 PM. The conference, "Medicine, Science, and the Law: Special Needs 2010"

will consist of a legal and legislative program in the morning, including attorney a Ruiz from Southern Legal Counsel speaking on the Medicaid tiers system, and a legislative town hall meeting. Following lunch, the afternoon will have two panels of professionals discussing neurological/psychological issues, and orthopedic/therapy issues. Advance admission price will be $25.00 per person (including lunch),

but $40.00 at the door. There will be opportunities for exhibitors as well at

$150.00 for the day. Arlene Lakin, Esq., PresidentP.O. Box 24531Fort Lauderdale, FL 33307Telephone: 954/975-5159

FIU Research: Attention in Autism & Developmental Disabilities

Researchers at FIU are seeking children with autism, children with developmental disabilities, and typically developing children up to 5 years of age to participate in a study of perception and attentional shifting to social and nonsocial events.

The study requires up to three visits of 1½ - 2 hrs each.

Children will watch interesting videos and engage in several play-based tasks with our trained lab staff.

Parents will be with their child at all times.

Parents may be asked to provide information about their child’s development and behavior.

For more information or to schedule an appointment, please contact the FIU Infant Development Lab at .

Looking for a Autism Related Job for the Fall?

Now is the time to submit or search our Free Employment Opportunity Database. Click on the words "submit or search" above to start!

Free Autism/ASD Screenings

Face Autism Inc., a non-profit org, is providing FREE Autism/ASD screenings for children ages 15 months through 4 years of age for children in Manatee, Sarasota, and Charlotte counties. For more information on free screenings, please contact: Susie Tromley at .

Statewide Advocacy Network on Disabilities (STAND)

presents SPARC 2010

Largo FL, Saturday, September 11, 2010, Fitzgerald Middle SchoolSPARC is an Annual Educational/Social/Emotional Resource Conference.

This is a Statewide Conference. Registration for attendees opens May 10th.

For more info, please contact: Tremblay at .

Become an ARCOFSF member...

Members have access to:

A FREE Employment Opportunity Database

where you may post or search job opportunities within the Autism industry.

For access please click on the following link or you may cut and paste this link into your web browser:

http://www.autismresourcecenterofsouthflorida.com/jobsoffer/index.php

Be sure to scroll down on this page to view all options for searching and submitting job postings.

FREE South Florida Autism Service Provider Directory

where you may search, refer, or list your organizaion, school or business.

For access please click on the following link or you may cut and paste this link into your web browser:

https://www.autismresourcecenterofsouthflorida.com/resources/addlisting.php

Be sure to scroll down on this page to view all options for searching and submitting provider listings.

Members may also submit Autism related articles/events/announcements

for their organization, school or business.

Please send all submissions to: Autismresourcesf@...

Please paste information directly into your email. Do not send as an attachment.

(Be sure to include your contact phone number and email.)

Helpful Products for Vocational Training

& Promoting Independence

for Children, Adolescents & Adults

with Autism Related Disorders

Asperger's on the Job

What coworkers, educators,

& employees with Asperger's

need to know!

This title addresses a very significant challenge in the American workforce. Over 1.5 million people are affected by autism or Asperger's Syndrome (AS) and this population is entering the workforce unprepared, clashing with unprepared coworkers. Over 85% of people with AS are without full-time employment, and the United States is spending almost $90 billion annually for autism treatment and research. Author Rudy Simone surveyed people with AS and their employers to provide solutions for employees with AS, and their parents, educators, and coworkers. Price: $19.95

>> More Info

Preparing for Life

Typically, ASD high school graduates are unprepared for the transition to independence. Early, ongoing training in the social skills crucial to establishing successful adult relationships—in college, vocational school, residential living, or on the job—can help. He also guides readers through the legal, financial, educational, vocational, and community resources available after graduation. The essence of the book lies in the 73 “Skill Lessons†targeting nonverbal communication, empathy, anger/anxiety management, conversational skills, and employment-related skills—which can be taught by parents, teachers, or professionals. This easy-to-follow resource offers a complete toolbox of social skills and the means to attain them. Price: $34.95

>> More Info

Taking Care of Myself

Puberty can be especially tough when young people have autism or other special needs. Through simple stories similar to Carol Gray’s Social Stories, author Wrobel teaches caregivers exactly what to say and not say, and shows how you can create helpful stories of your own. addresses hygiene, modesty, body growth and development, menstruation, touching, personal safety, and more. Young students can benefit from self-care skills such as using the toilet, brushing teeth, and washing hands. Parents and teachers should begin teaching these necessary skills as early as possible, even from ages 3-5. The ultimate goal is to maximize the child’s potential for independence and lifelong social success.

Price: $24.95

>> More Info

Developing Talents

Written specifically for

high-functioning adolescents

& young adults on the Autism spectrum, and their families, teachers, and counselors.

The two authors weave together a unique blend of information and advice based on personal experiences. Temple Grandin draws from her own experience with autism spectrum disorders and her professional career, and Kate Duffy uses her expertise on employment issues and the mother of two teenagers with autistic-like behaviors. The result is an extremely useful and practical book that introduces step-by-step processes for the job search with a major section on the impact ASD has in the workplace, including managing sensory problems, how to nurture and turn talents and special interests into paid work, jobs that are particularly suited to individuals on the spectrum, and much more. First-hand accounts of job experiences and advice from individuals representing a broad range of careers particularly suited for high-functioning individuals on the autism spectrum round off this exciting new resource.Price:

$19.95

>> More Info

How Do I Feel

First Runner-Up in the 2006 Writer’s Notes Book Awards,

This book utilizes the strengths of children with ASD to help them develop new skills. Tasks are visually oriented, consistent; expectations are clear. Children learn motor, matching, sorting, reading, writing, and math skills using easy-to-make “task boxes.†Tasks include pushing items through a small openings (children love the “resistance†it takes to push them through); matching simple, identical pictures or words; sorting objects by color, size, or shape. Ideas are plentiful, materials colorful, and children love the repetitive nature of the “tasks,†which help them learn to work independently! Sample data sheets are included.

Price: $21.95

>> More Info

Toilet Training for

Individuals with Autism

A life preserver for parents and reluctant children!

Toilet training can be a battleground for parents and children. In this book—the only one on the market dealing with the specific issues involved in toilet training children with autism— Wheeler offers a detailed roadmap for success, based on over twenty years of experience. Easy-to-read bulleted lists offer over 200 do’s and don’ts, along with more than fifty real-life examples. Learn, among other things, how to gauge ?readiness,? overcome fear of the bathroom, teach how to use toilet paper, flush and wash up, and deal with toileting in unfamiliar environments.

Price: $19.95

>> More Info

View All Vocational Books

View All Promoting Independence Books

New Release!

Asperger's in Pink: A Mother and Daughter Guidebook

for Raising (or being!) a Girl with Asperger's

Join author and mom as she shares her "Pink Pearls of Wisdom"

from "Inside the Bubble" of raising a daughter with Asperger's! On the way

you'll be delighted and intrigued by candid commentary from her daughter

a, whose spirit and perseverance outweigh any obstacle she may face.

Together, you'll explore: The Road to Diagnosis The Teacher Who “Gets It†Occupational Therapy and “Group†Tuning in to Social Signals Winning the Daily Battles Hope for the Future And more!

Price: $14.95

>> More Info

View All Asperger's Books

ARCOFSF Member Article Submissions

Autism and Vocational Training

by Eisla Sebastian

Just like everyone else, kids with autism will eventually need to function in the "real world" and make a living. Vocational training is one way to help your autistic child to develop a bankable skill. Vocational training can be obtained through high school education programs, online courses, local community colleges and even through home activities.

High School Vocational Training

When you develop your child's IEP (Individual Education Program) for their high school years one issue that you will need to discuss is their vocational training and post school transition. The options that you have in these areas are going to greatly depend on the functional level of your child, their interests and your resources. For most kids with autism learning vocational skills can be very helpful for finding them post-high school employment. Since they enjoy repetitive work they do well in the technology industry and in the manufacturing industry. The vocation skill that is selected should be based on what your child is interested in, however, several vocations should still be explored to find the right fit.

Community Colleges Vocational Training

Another option that you have for finding vocational training for your autistic child is to check out local community college courses and adult learning annexes. These learning institutes provide a lower key educational environment than a university, and provide your child, or young adult, with the opportunity to select from a menu of vocational learning opportunities. They can even earn an Associates Degree or training certificate. Of course if your child is high functioning and capable of attending a regular university, then they can pursue a degree and a career in a field that interests them.

Online Courses - Vocational Training

If your child has a hard time dealing with crowds and uncontrolled learning environments then they can pursue a degree or a vocational career via an online training or degree program. There are hundreds of online programs to choose between, some that are even provided by the country's top state universities and private universities. This is a great option for adults with autism who are interested in advancing their education or training for a career. It tends to be less expensive than traditional colleges and universities and it gives them the chance to control their learning environment.

At Home Vocational Training

Your final option is to set up your own vocational training program at home. For example, you can teach your child how to cook, how to use tools, how to enter data into a computer program or how to operate commonly used computer software. The vocational training that you offer your child at home or via your office will depend on your own skills and capabilities. However, this can be a great way to transition your home schooled autistic child into a profession.

Advocacy Skills

Kids with autism have limitless possibility. For most, the degree of success comes as a result of early intervention and appropriate educational strategies and supports. No parent or provider should ever view a challenge as a hopeless situation. That’s true for the parent and school relationship as well. Yes, at times there are hurdles to overcome in communication and collaboration with those that you entrust your child’s education to; however in almost every situation the efforts that you make are well worth it.

The IEP is a more powerful document than most parents realize. A well written IEP can drive the educational program for a child and provide documentation needed should a situation arise where your child is not making the progress anticipated. Information within the IEP must be detailed and specific to truly capture the needs, strategies, supports and services necessary for a child to find success. Children whose private therapists work in collaboration with teachers consistently show the greatest amount of progress. A well rounded program that includes educational programming that target the child’s needs, evidence based interventions and components of differentiated instruction, can offer amazing outcomes.

YOU are your child’s best advocate! You are the only one that truly has a vested and passionate interest in the development and progression of your child. There are specific skill sets that will allow you to effectively advocate for your child during the IEP process. We offer some of those here:

1. Be well informed about your child's needsLearn as much as you possibly can about your child's disability. Find out what the best practices are and how your child's needs can best be met in the school setting. You cannot begin to educate others, until you understand the disability yourself. Learn as much as possible to fully understand how the disability impacts the child.

2. Be Prepared

It is vitally important to acquire the requisite knowledge to advocate successfully. Never stop learning. School districts receive parent education dollars through IDEA and many offer ongoing trainings for parents. Attend as many as is possible to learn not only more about your school system, but the federal and state laws that govern them. In addition, there are several trainings and conferences offered by specific disability agencies. A plethora of information can be gained by consulting with parents struggling with the same issue. Local parent support groups can offer feedback from parents who have traveled the path that you are now following.

3. Remain focused on the child

Oftentimes IEP meetings can become heated situations. More progress can be made when collaboration takes place. This is unlikely to happen when tension is in the air. Remain confident in your attainment of knowledge, know that you are protected by procedural safeguards and focus on the needs of your child. 4. Communication

The ability to communicate clearly and effectively is one of the most important skill sets which a successful advocate brings to educational planning. Too often communication from the school is given in vague educational jargon. Their “lingo†is oftentimes through acronyms that are beyond the parent’s knowledge base. On the other side, parent’s communication tends to be highly emotional; at times focuses on what has happened in the past rather than the present situation; and sometimes fails to convey their true goal. By using effective communication strategies, a bridge can be built to close the gap between home and school. 5. Be proactive, not reactive

It is important to be prepared for your meeting. Make a list of the items that you want to cover and what your objectives are. During a meeting it may be necessary to take strategic “breaks†to allow time for cool down, consultation, and regrouping. Sometimes it is more beneficial to terminate a meeting that is failing to move in a positive direction and protect the record and procedural rights.

6. Ask QuestionsIf you don't understand terms being used, ask for clarification. Be sure to completely understand the process, procedures, planning and interventions being discussed on behalf of your child. Getting the answers to any questions you may have will help to avoid a sense of frustration.

7. Remain Positive and SupportiveSometimes this is the most difficult step. You want to feel good about dropping your child off at school each day. The IEP Committee should be a “team†that works together to build a strong educational program for your child. You can be assertive without being aggressive. Working collaboratively with the school will help to build a two way trusting relationship. Remember: anger, hostility, aggression and frustration will not be productive in ensuring the best program is in place for your child. 2-way trusting relationships will maximize your child's benefits.

8.Know your rightsKnowing what alternative actions you have available in advance of the meeting will help you stay focused on the course of the meeting. Your Procedural Safeguards will provide direction should the outcome of the meeting not support the needs of your child. Stay strong, know that the school must provide for his/her needs and be confident in your ability to passionately and vehemently represent your child.

Article submitted by Stacey Hoaglund; Family Support Specialist with Family Network on Disabilities of Broward, and CEO of S.H. Consultants, Inc providing advocacy services outside of Broward County.

To contact, please call: or .

Your Event/Article Could Be Here.

The Autism Resource Center of South Florida is currently accepting your events/announcements/articles for our upcoming October 2010 Newsletter.

The theme next month will be Developing Social Skills.

Please send all submissions to: Autismresourcesf@...

Please paste information directly into your email. Do not send as an attachment.

(Be sure to include your contact phone number and contact email.)

We look forward to hearing from you!

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