We strive to ensure that each and every one of our guests have the best possible experience when they visit Summers Farm. With that in mind, we are pleased to offer Sensory Friendly Hours exclusively for guests on the autism spectrum or with other sensory sensitivities. During this time, we welcome these families to enjoy the farm in a sensory modified setting with no music, fewer crowds, and less waiting in line.
Some details to keep in mind:
-Regular weekend admission rates apply.
-Guests joining us for the Sensory Friendly Hours are welcome to stay and continue to enjoy the farm after we open to the public at 10am.
-Apple Blasters and Corn Cribs will not be available.
-If a member of your family has special dietary restrictions, you may bring your own drinks and snacks.
Please note that we are NOT open to the general public until 10am on these days. We ask that you respect these families and allow them this time to enjoy the farm on their own.
Contact Name : Summers Farm
Contact Email : --
Location: Summer\'s Farm 5620 Butterfly Lane Frederick, MD
PRINCE GEORGE’S COUNTY HEALTH and HUMAN SERVICES Behavioral Health, Back to School and COVID-19
September 28, 2020 –
In recognition of National Suicide Prevention and Drug Recovery Month, the Prince George’s County Health and Human Services Team, virtual Mental Health mini-webinars schedule:
September 28th 2:00pm:
Children and Youth Advocates Panel Zoom Information:
Session will feature a group of expert panelists, currently involved with emergency service provision, support services for children with differing abilities, parent and guardian supports and family education resources. Parents, guardians, and students are encouraged to attend, as these sessions will address the confluence of tensions arising with online schooling, parents becoming teachers and the social challenges we currently face.
Transition: A Bridge to Your Future - Post-Secondary Virtual Transition Expo
October 1, 2020 –
The Post-Secondary Virtual Transition Expo will connect students and their families to sources that help build successful lives after high school. Students with IEP's and 504 plans, parents, and teachers are all invited.
VIdeo Group for Spouses/Partners of Adults with Asperger's
October 1, 2020 –
In this group, you will have the chance to speak with others who understand and share your experiences with issues related to being in a neurodiverse couple. Discussions are focused on learning tools and coping strategies for particular issues that arise because of the neurological differences between partners.
Self-Direction and the Good Life: Many Lives, Many Choices!
October 1, 2020 –
The Self-Directed Advocacy Network of Maryland is proud that choice and control of services have enriched the lives of people with developmental disabilities, and we are so glad to share the beauty of self-direction with others.
Our virtual video launch party guests will include Ande Kolp, Executive Director of Arc Maryland; Delegate Karen Lewis Young and Senator Susan Lee of the Maryland General Assembly; Casey DeLuca of Applied Self-Direction; NaToya Mitchell, Maryland's Statewide Coordinator of Self-Direction; Tracy Davis, FMS Director at The Arc Central Chesapeake Region; and SDAN volunteers.
After-party guests will include our director, Rob McQuay, and participants and family members who are featured in the video. They will be available to answer your questions and share more details about their experiences in self-direction.
See the link to our trailer below to preview the video. Hope to see you on October 1!
Support Group of the Autism Society of Baltimore-Chesapeake
October 1, 2020 –
Support group open to all adults. Meeting begins with general announcements about upcoming activities, followed by individual introductions and the invitation to share one "golden moment" you've experienced during the previous month. Following that, there will be time for questions and follow-up discussion as well as further opportunity for group support and socialization. Some meetings will have speakers on topics of interest to the autism community in the Baltimore area.
Light refreshments and handouts available along with access to our lending library.
Please be aware that support group meetings are for adults as some topics discussed may not be suitable for children, and child care is not provided.
For information about ASBC, call our phone line at 410-655-7933 or email info@baltimoreautismsociety.org
Location
Mt. Washington Pediatric Hospital, 3rd Floor Conference Room
1708 W Rogers Ave
Baltimore, MD 21209
Every Saturday from
September 12th – October 17th
Register by August 28th
Online interactive social skills group designed to help you
identify, build, and foster healthy relationships. Develop the
skills necessary to form meaningful and healthy relationships
through lessons, activities, and role play scenarios.
Chuck E. Cheese is proud to support families who have children with autism and other special needs. We offer a sensory-friendly experience on the first Sunday of every month at participating locations, opening our stores two hours before their normal opening time. Our Sensory Sensory events include a trained and caring staff that work to ensure each guest has a fun-filled visit. We realize that the Chuck E. experience can be very stimulating for any child, so our mission is to create an event that allows ALL kids to be a kid.
Chuck E. Cheese is proud to support families who have children with autism and other special needs. We offer a sensory-friendly experience on the first Sunday of every month at participating locations, opening our stores two hours before their normal opening time. Our Sensory Sensory events include a trained and caring staff that work to ensure each guest has a fun-filled visit. We realize that the Chuck E. experience can be very stimulating for any child, so our mission is to create an event that allows ALL kids to be a kid.
Chuck E. Cheese is proud to support families who have children with autism and other special needs. We offer a sensory-friendly experience on the first Sunday of every month at participating locations, opening our stores two hours before their normal opening time. Our Sensory Sensory events include a trained and caring staff that work to ensure each guest has a fun-filled visit. We realize that the Chuck E. experience can be very stimulating for any child, so our mission is to create an event that allows ALL kids to be a kid.
Group leader Grace Myhill, MSW, focuses small group discussions on coping strategies for the unique issues that arise because of the neurological differences between each partner in a neurodiverse couple.
Our areas of focus continue to be education and advocacy. Our voices will continue to be used in a positive, organized effort to help parents and professionals convey information and experiences to leadership, to support the Department of Special Education in their goals, and to advise the Board of Education and top-level decision makers in Baltimore
County Public Schools.
Our meeting topics will remain fluid this year so that we can be responsive to the needs of BCPS families during these unprecedented times. We hope you will consider joining us for any or all of the scheduled SECAC meetings below.
Registration is not required. All meetings are open to the public.
Autism frequently co-occurs with any of a long list of other conditions, but none may be more closely linked than epilepsy. A significant number of autistic individuals also have epilepsy, according to some reports, suggesting that the two conditions share underlying biology.
This online webinar is free to attend, but registration is required. Prior to the webinar, a Zoom link will be sent to you.
Please join us for our Virtual Open Mic Night at Daniel’s Music. Hosted on Zoom, attendees will enjoy a variety of virtual live performances during this free, one-hour event.
If you are interested in attending or performing, please complete the information below. Please note, the number of spots for performers are limited and available on a first-come, first-serve basis. Attendees will receive a Zoom invitation via email one-hour prior to the event - simply log in to enjoy. Interested performers will receive an email from Scott Schmitz with instructions. Virtual doors open at 6:45PM Eastern so drop by early to listen to music and chat with other guests via the Zoom chat box.
Please join us for our Virtual Dance Along. Hosted on Zoom, attendees, ages 8 to 15 , will enjoy dancing and moving along with DMF instructor David during this free, one-hour event. Don’t forget your dancing shoes!
If you would like to attend, please complete the information below. Attendees will receive a Zoom invitation via email one-hour prior to the event - simply log in to start moving and grooving. Virtual doors open at 6:20PM Eastern.
Every Saturday from
September 12th – October 17th
Register by August 28th
Online interactive social skills group designed to help you
identify, build, and foster healthy relationships. Develop the
skills necessary to form meaningful and healthy relationships
through lessons, activities, and role play scenarios.
Presented by Gillian Simone, CCPS Psychologist
Information for parents to learn strategies to handle daily stressors and give parents tools to teach kids to take on anxiety causing stressors instead of avoiding them. Gillian will be
presenting a section how to reassure children with special needs and/or anxiety about going back to school after the Covid-19 crisis.
To register for this workshop, email the PRC Resource Center at prc@ccps.org.
Contact Name : Cecil County Public Schools’ Parent Resource Center For Special Education
This webinar will address reasons why individuals might elope, safety preventive measures parents and caregivers can put into place, and what information is most beneficial for police if your loved one goes missing.
We have established a self- advocacy group that welcomes not only the individuals with disabilities that we serve but others as well. The group is called Voices of U.S. (Unified Speakers).
All Voices of U.S meetings are held on the second Wednesday of every month from 6:00pm-8:00pm at the Mid-Atlantic Main Office (2109 Laurel Bush Road, Bel Air MD, 21015).
Each meeting is a social event where people can discuss whatever recent success they have had, current events and hold fundraisers.
All attendees receive food and drink at every meeting.
Volunteers are welcomed!
Feel free to ask any questions.
Parnell Barmer
Day Options Director, Mid-Atlantic Human Service Corporation
2109 Laurel Bush Road, Bel Air, Maryland, 21015
Cell- 443-468-9815
Contact Name : --
Contact Email : --
Location: Mid-Atlantic Human Service Corporation Main Office 2109 Laurel Bush Road Bel Air, Maryland 21015
In this group, you will have the chance to speak with others who communicate and see the world like you do about the challenges that arise in neurodiverse relationships. Not only are coping strategies and tools presented, they are practiced in the meetings to help group members improve their relationship skills.
VIdeo Group for Spouses/Partners of Adults with Asperger's
October 15, 2020 –
In this group, you will have the chance to speak with others who understand and share your experiences with issues related to being in a neurodiverse couple. Discussions are focused on learning tools and coping strategies for particular issues that arise because of the neurological differences between partners.
This activity is FREE to register! Please register one email that will receive access to the Zoom link and indicate how many BINGO cards your family will need (up to 6 per family). Once registration is closed, 48 hours before our BINGO Game, you will receive a Zoom link for our game and a link to access your bingo cards. Each person will use ONE Bingo card. We will play 4 games, so you can either print your card 4 times, or use your card online and you will be able to clear your card each time.
Kinera Cares-Tweens & Teen Virtual Social Hour is a monthly program, completely free, for tweens and tweens ages 11 years to 17 years, and is geared for those individuals who have disabilities and special health care needs. Each month we offer fun activities, crafts and games. Some examples of activities include: Comedy Hour, Show-n-Tell, Disney Trivia, Nature Paint Night, and Fun with Poems & Limericks. Siblings that fall into the same age range are welcome to participate, regardless of having a disability/special need, as this program is inclusive. Our Social Hour occurs monthly, the third Thursday of each month, from 7pm-8pm (EST). If you are interested in having your tween/teen join the meeting, please email Julie Vallecillo, Parent Navigator at Kinera, for the parental/caregiver consent form (required): julie@kinera.org.
Contact Name : Julie Vallecillo, Parent Navigator
Contact Email : julie@kinera.org
Location: Kinera Foundation 115 Sallitt Dr., Suite C Stevensville, Maryland 21666
Every Saturday from
September 12th – October 17th
Register by August 28th
Online interactive social skills group designed to help you
identify, build, and foster healthy relationships. Develop the
skills necessary to form meaningful and healthy relationships
through lessons, activities, and role play scenarios.
Join us for an adventure at Maize Quest Fun Park. Navigate the 2020 Maize Quest Corn Maze “Sherlock
Holmes: Discover the Clues.” When you are finished, enjoy over 30 other attractions including the bamboo
maze, rope maze, Fun Zone obstacle course, GIANT tube slide and more! (The Hidden Gem Railroad is NOT
included with park admission.)
Autism York will cover the cost of park admission and unlimited hayrides on the Pumpkin Wagon Express for
each person affected by ASD and up to 4 immediate family members for a total of 5 free tickets! (Each
additional ticket can be purchased for the regular admission price at the main entrance.)
**For free admission to the park, you must check in with the Autism York representative between 1:00-
3:00pm to receive your wristband. Once in the park, you are welcome to stay until closing.
Pumpkin picking is available for a fee. Pumpkins are $.75/lb.—no pumpkin costs more than $12.00. Don’t
forget a flashlight if you would like to try the maze in the dark and socks for the jump pad! The snack bar will
be open for food and beverage purchases, but you are permitted to bring your own snacks and drinks, should
you choose.
Contact Name : Autism York
Contact Email : info@autismyork.org
Location: Maize Quest Fun Park 2885 New Park Road, New Park, PA
Participants are invited to meet online in October for our virtual SNA event via Zoom! As usual, there will be arts and crafts, dance, an optional Bible lesson, music, and MORE!
Special Halloween Art Project:
Items needed:
white paper cup
battery powered tea light
black marker
As an additional bonus, HU will be providing ACTIVITY BAGS to supplement the full SNA experience (1 per family).
VIdeo Group for Spouses/Partners of Adults with Asperger's
October 18, 2020 –
In this group, you will have the chance to speak with others who understand and share your experiences with issues related to being in a neurodiverse couple. Discussions are focused on learning tools and coping strategies for particular issues that arise because of the neurological differences between partners.
Spouse Group for Neurotypical Partners in a Neurodiverse Relationship
October 18, 2020 –
Group leader Grace Myhill, MSW, focuses small group discussions on coping strategies for the unique issues that arise because of the neurological differences between each partner in a neurodiverse couple.
Being a parent is among the most difficult jobs in the universe. We are called to teach, model, love, support, comfort, advise, and give discipline. Sometimes these roles conflict with each other and we are pulled in opposing directions. Add in our fast-paced environment and the impact of social media and this job can be monumentally difficult. Parent coaching provides guidance to parents and helps families consider what is going well and what challenges need to be addressed. All kids want to be successful, and parent coaching can give parents the tools to teach kids the skills and resilience they need.
Parenting a child with autism, anxiety, ADHD, and other neurological challenges adds another layer of complexity. Despite the best advice from friends, family, and others, sometimes additional tools and strategies are needed.
Lighthouse is pleased to offer parent coaching one Saturday a month. These 45-minute sessions can stand alone as one-time supports or can be on-going coaching sessions. Prior to the first session, our Social Learning Coordinator, Jolene Farmer, sends a skills inventory for parents to complete. Together with Jolene, parents will prioritize goals and decide on an action plan designed especially for their family.
Our next available session is October 20th. There is one remaining slot available on this day at 1:15pm. The next upcoming dates for coaching sessions is 11/17 from 10am to 2pm.
Please contact Jolene Farmer to schedule
Jolene@lighthousemd.org
Contact Name : --
Contact Email : --
Location: Lighthouse, Inc 60 Mellor Avenue Catonsville, MD 21228
VIdeo Group for Spouses/Partners of Adults with Asperger's
October 20, 2020 –
In this group, you will have the chance to speak with others who understand and share your experiences with issues related to being in a neurodiverse couple. Discussions are focused on learning tools and coping strategies for particular issues that arise because of the neurological differences between partners.
Using Schoology to Support Student Organization Online
October 21, 2020 –
In this session, we will discuss the challenges and importance of students’ organizational skills in the remote learning environment. Practical solutions for everyday problems will be provided with a focus on the support available to students and families through the already familiar Schoology platform.
All BCPS Parents/Caregivers are invited to attend.
The same information will be presented at each offering. A link to the virtual meeting will be emailed to the provided email address prior to the day of the event.
Progress monitoring is built into the IDEA and the IEP’s that are produced. Even in times of crisis, like the current pandemic, we must rely on the data. This workshop will focus on strategies and methods of tracking progress monitoring during virtual learning so parents will be able to support requests for compensatory services from the school systems, if needed.
The webinar is free to attend, but registration is required. Prior to the webinar, a Zoom link will be sent to you.
Roots & Wings: Preparing Your Child for Life After High School
October 21, 2020 –
A workshop for parents who are considering college for their child with a disability. It will offer academic, social/emotional, and self-advocacy strategies that parents may use in supporting the successful transition of students with disabilities from high school to college. Presented by, Robyn McCray, LCSW-C, Associate Director Disability Support Services, Towson University.
FOUR-PART FALL FAMILY SUPPORT GROUP FROM HOWARD COUNTY AUTISM SOCIETY
October 21, 2020 –
FOUR-PART FALL FAMILY SUPPORT GROUP FROM HOWARD COUNTYAUTISM SOCIETY
Wednesdays, 7:00-8:30pm
Virtual Events
September 23 - A Community of support
Meet our Family Navigator, Stacy Hurley, and learn about the new Mentor Program. Brainstorm topics and speakers for spring sessions. Play games for prizes.
October 21 - What is YOUR social capital and how can you better utilize it?
Learn how to expand, maintain and mobilize your network of support.
November 18 - Self-care for the caregiver and the family member with autism
Discuss compassion fatigue and how to employ the five love languages.
December 16 - Help your child or family member with autism thrive!
Explore strategies to improve communication, maintain schedules and consistency, engage and build on interests, and reinforce positive behaviors.
All sessions are facilitated by Stacy Hurley, Licensed Certified Social Worker form the Howard County Autism Society. Families with children of all ages with autism are welcome!
Registration is required to receive the WebEx login for this monthly event; the login will be the same for all four sessions. Register at https://app.donorview.com/g135k
The Special Education Citizens Advisory Committee works with the school system to support the needs of students with disabilities. We collaborate with other community disability advocacy groups to improve special education and the lives of our students in Howard County. SECAC meets once a month during the school year. This year’s meetings will be virtual via Zoom, if you are on the SECAC mailing list you will get the link directly, or email secacchair@gmail.com for the link.
Supporting Students and Families in the Virtual Classroom
October 21, 2020 –
WHAT: “Supporting Students and Families in the Virtual Classroom”
WHEN:Wednesday, October 21, 2020 TIME: 7:00 P.M. TO 8:30 P.M.
PRESENTER: Cresta Kowalski, MA, a Special Ed Teacher, will present parents with ideas and insights of ways to help their children with disabilities be successful with the virtual school and homework. Have your questions ready and an open mind to get support on how to best help your children with virtual learning.
Pathfinders for Autism and Child's Heart Yoga are teaming up to try and provide a much needed mental health break for everyone during this hectic time.
Starting on Friday, October 23rd at 4:30 p.m. and continuing once a month until March, please join us for a free, virtual, all ages, family friendly yoga class taught by Bridget Strama.
The event(s) are free, but a one-time registration is required. A Zoom link will be sent out before each class to join in.
Come join us for a FREE, socially distanced walk along our new sensory trail on Saturday, October 24th or 31st! Explore stations along the trail that engage all of your senses for a fun and therapeutic outdoor experience!
Once registered, please email mlynn5@students.towson.edu to inform her of a preferred time. We are separating groups by 10 minute increments to insure socially distancing.
Contact Name : Chelsea Whitaker, OTR/L
Contact Email : info@takingthelead.org
Location: Taking the Lead, Inc. at Timberbrook Farm 21000 Slab Bridge Rd Freeland, Maryland 21053
Promoting Positive Interaction with Law Enforcement: A Panel Discussion
October 26, 2020 –
At Pathfinders for Autism, we have been training law enforcement on how to best interact with individuals with autism and other developmental disabilities since 2012. As a part of PFA’s continuing commitment to promoting positive relationships between those with disabilities and the law enforcement community, we feel there is a need for a holistic approach to this critical conversation. Please join our moderator, former police officer and 105.7 The Fan morning show host, Rob Long, as he and a panel of law enforcement officers discuss the rules that should be followed to help ensure everyone’s safety. The panel will also discuss what caregivers can do to help make it a better interaction for all involved.
The webinar is free to attend, but registration is required. Prior to the webinar, a Zoom link will be sent to you.
If you have questions for the panel, please submit them to smclaughlin@pfamd.org by October 19.
WHAT: EXPECTATIONS MATTER—MY LIFE, MY PLAN, MY CHOICE
WHEN: Thursday, October 26, 2020 TIME: 7:00 P.M. TO 8:00 P.M.
PRESENTERS: Babette Smith, Support Broker, and her daughter, Melanie, Self Advocate, will explain “Person Centered Planning” to teens with disabilities and their families on how to plan for their own futures and the supports available through the process. This training was developed by people with disabilities and families. It is brought to you by Shared Support Maryland, Inc., through a generous grant from the Maryland Developmental
Disabilities Council.
TO REGISTER: Call “Family Support Services” at 240-920-6829, and give us your email address and the link will be emailed to you.
SPECTRUM SECRETS The Untold Stories Of Parents With Autistic Children by Dr. Sharline Mashack (Support Webinar for Parents)
October 26, 2020 –
Dr. Sharline Mashack, Psychologist. We are featuring her book, "SPECTRUM SECRETS, The Untold Stories Of Parents With Autistic Children" The book and topics will reveal the fears, worry, and anxiety we have as parents and how we hide our true feelings from others who do not understand. She wants parents to know, "You are not alone". Dr. Mashack has a 25-year-old autistic son. She will talk about her experience and the experience of other parents in her book. There will be a Q & A session.
Using Schoology to Support Student Organization Online
October 28, 2020 –
In this session, we will discuss the challenges and importance of students’ organizational skills in the remote learning environment. Practical solutions for everyday problems will be provided with a focus on the support available to students and families through the already familiar Schoology platform.
All BCPS Parents/Caregivers are invited to attend.
The same information will be presented at each offering. A link to the virtual meeting will be emailed to the provided email address prior to the day of the event.
VIdeo Group for Spouses/Partners of Adults with Asperger's
October 29, 2020 –
In this group, you will have the chance to speak with others who understand and share your experiences with issues related to being in a neurodiverse couple. Discussions are focused on learning tools and coping strategies for particular issues that arise because of the neurological differences between partners.
A Parent’s Guide: Navigating Special Education during COVID-19 pandemic
October 29, 2020 –
This session will review the Maryland State Department of Education technical assistance bulletins and provide resources, information on supporting your child during virtual learning.
Contact Name : Michelle Thornton, Family Support Specialist
What Families Need to Know About Planning for a Loved One with Special Needs
October 30, 2020 –
Presented by Elville and Associates’ principal and lead attorney Stephen R. Elville, this webinar is a discussion that will educate attendees about planning for their loved one with special needs.
Attendees will come to understand what is involved in the planning process for a special needs family and the importance of preserving the loved one’s financial security and quality of life.
The key issues of understanding the role of public benefits, making decisions about the future, Maryland ABLE, and using estate planning and trusts to protect assets will be discussed along with the types of special needs trusts and their specific purposes (along with who the decision makers and beneficiaries can be in these trusts). Also, to be touched upon will be the “planning team concept” — how your planning team (attorney, financial advisor, CPA) — can work together to help provide your family peace of mind during the special needs planning process.
Should you have questions ahead of time, please contact Community Relations Director Jeff Stauffer at 443-393-7696 x117.
Open to clients, advisors and the general public. For Certified Financial Planners, CPAs, and other professionals 1.5 continuing education hours will be available for attending this presentation. We look forward to hosting you!
Come join us for a FREE, socially distanced walk along our new sensory trail on Saturday, October 24th or 31st! Explore stations along the trail that engage all of your senses for a fun and therapeutic outdoor experience!
Once registered, please email mlynn5@students.towson.edu to inform her of a preferred time. We are separating groups by 10 minute increments to insure socially distancing.
Contact Name : Chelsea Whitaker, OTR/L
Contact Email : info@takingthelead.org
Location: Taking the Lead, Inc. at Timberbrook Farm 21000 Slab Bridge Rd Freeland, Maryland 21053
Date Saturday, October 31, 2020 Drive-thru Open: 1pm - 4pm; Registration Required LocationKinera Foundation CostFREE! Fun for entire family! Please register below. Due to COVID-19, registration is required. We will not be able to accommodate you without a registration.
Kinera's Trunk or Treat Drive-thru begins at 1pm and vehicles will need to line up, with their number posted in the car window. Trick or treaters are encouraged dress in costume and to vote for their favorite vendor Halloween displays as they drive-thru. Voting takes place on Facebook. All children will receive a treat bag of goodies and crafts.
This is a FREE family event, but registration is required. Please RSVP below. Each registered vehicle will receive a number, which is to be displayed in your vehicle's left passenger window. All passengers must remain in your vehicle the entire time--this is for your safety. All COVID-19 and Social-Distancing Guidelines need to be followed. Masks required. Thank you!
Movie Night returns to Leidos Field at Ripken Stadium on Halloween night, Saturday, October 31 with everyone's favorite ghost, Casper!
Gates open at 4:30pm and showtime is 5:30pm. Spend your Halloween with us watching this 1995 classic on the field.
Tickets start at $5, with tickets available at $10 with a popcorn and soda can/water bottle included in purchase. No food or drink is permitted to be brought into the ballpark. Lawn chairs are not permitted in the ballpark. Guests are welcome to bring beach towels or blankets to sit on the field or sit socially distanced in the stadium seating.
If you have any questions regarding your order, please contact our ticket office at 410-297-9292
Contact Name : Aberdeen Ironbirds
Contact Email : aadams@ironbirdsbaseball.com
Location: Leidos Field 873 Long Dr Aberdeen, MD 21001
10th Annual Run Wild For Autism 2020
Transition: A Bridge to Your Future - Post-Secondary Virtual Transition Expo