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.
Navigating A New Autism Diagnosis: Part 2: Navigating a New Autism Diagnosis: Timely Interventions
January 6, 2021 –
This is a three-part series designed for families, care providers and others seeking information on how to best navigate a new autism diagnosis. You will hear from parents, topic experts, self-advocates and members of the autism community who will share their personal experiences. During these challenging times, Autism Speaks is dedicated to ensuring you have access to reliable information, resources and support through the autism journey.
Objectives:
Participants will benefit from expert speakers with a focus on a new diagnosis and evidence-based practices.
Participants will access new resources and tools to help make decisions for their child.
Participants will learn strategies and practical advice on the importance of advocating for their child.
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
January 7, 2021 –
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.
Unase a nuestras sesiones de cafe y conversacion el primer jueves de cada mes si es un padre de habla hispana. Cafe y Conversaciones es un espacio virtual seguro para:
Support Group of the Autism Society of Baltimore-Chesapeake
January 7, 2021 –
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
VIdeo Group for Spouses/Partners of Adults with Asperger's
January 10, 2021 –
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.
When the relationship between parents and school personnel becomes strained or better yet, before the relationship
has the opportunity to fray, parents and school personnel are finding that using independent facilitators can assist the
IEP team process. Presented by Kathy Glace and Brenda Gilligan, Cecil County Community Mediation Center.
VIdeo Group for Spouses/Partners of Adults with Asperger's
January 12, 2021 –
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.
MarylandABLE Accounts -- How They Benefit Your Loved One with Special Needs
January 13, 2021 –
Kelly Nelson, Outreach and Communications Manager from MarylandABLE, will share an overview of how ABLE accounts can help people with disabilities and their families save for the future without jeopardizing federal, state and local benefits. Attendees will learn about:
-- the eligibility criteria and enrollment process;
-- features of an ABLE account and the account management process;
-- tax-free savings and tax-free withdrawals for qualified disabilities expenses;
-- accessing a Maryland State income tax deduction for contributions;
-- how an ABLE account can be used in collaboration with a Special Needs Trust
Open to clients, the general public, and financial advisors. 1.5 continuing education hours will be offered for CPAs, CFPs, and other professionals for attending this presentation. We look forward to hosting you!
PFA Event - Toilet Training Children and Adolescents with ASD: A Guide for Parents and Practitioners Part 2: Bowel Movement and Nighttime Toilet Training
January 13, 2021 –
Toilet training an individual diagnosed with ASD may be challenging, and often occurs at a later stage in life. This can be especially difficult when teaching bowel movement, wiping, and nighttime toileting skills. This training will focus on those skills to be targeted once your child has learned to remain dry during the day. Learning and generalizing these skills does not always occur automatically and may require explicit and systematic instruction. This training will define and breakdown those skills, to assist you in creating a practical plan that is tailored to the individual’s needs to successfully teach next steps for toilet training.
Navigating A New Autism Diagnosis: A Three Part Series - Part 3: Navigating A New Autism Diagnosis: Help Along the Journey
January 13, 2021 –
This is a three-part series designed for families, care providers and others seeking information on how to best navigate a new autism diagnosis. You will hear from parents, topic experts, self-advocates and members of the autism community who will share their personal experiences. During these challenging times, Autism Speaks is dedicated to ensuring you have access to reliable information, resources and support through the autism journey.
Objectives:
Participants will benefit from expert speakers with a focus on a new diagnosis and evidence-based practices.
Participants will access new resources and tools to help make decisions for their child.
Participants will learn strategies and practical advice on the importance of advocating for their child.
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
Next Kinera Connect/Kinera Cares Parent & Caregiver Meeting:
Save-the-date for Parent/caregiver Meeting: Wednesday, January 13, 7pm, with special guest Katie Peternel, BCBA, QACPS. Topic: Toilet Training Strategies
Email Julie@kinera.org for secure meeting links and to be added to our mailing list.
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.
Yoga for Children, Teens & Adults with Autism – FREE!
January 16, 2021 –
Enjoy our weekly FREE Yoga Classes with instructors from the Yoga Center of Columbia. These classes are made possible through the generosity of The Hussman Foundation.
Participants and parents/guardians to pre-register with HCAS. This is a one-time registration. Once registered, you will be added to the list to receive, by e-mail, the videoconference login and password for any future yoga classes. You will receive this information directly from the yoga instructors before each Saturday class. You may request to unsubscribe from the list at any time.
Each class will open about 10 minutes early for participants to visit with one another. Please login at least a few minutes early to get admitted. Instructors will close the class to late arrivals promptly at 3:30pm so that instruction can begin on time and proceed without interruption. We look forward to seeing you at the next Yoga Connections session.
If you have any questions or you registered and are not receiving the weekly e-mails, contact Susanne Mason at susanne.mason@howard-autism.org.
Participants are invited to meet online in September for our virtual SNA event via Zoom! As usual, there will be arts and crafts, dance, an optional Bible lesson, music, and MORE!
As an additional bonus, HU will be providing ACTIVITY BAGS to supplement the full SNA experience (1 per family). Please respond by September 4th and mark YES on your RSVP if you wish to pick up an Activity Bag (on 9/12 from 10- Noon) at:
Prince of Peace Church
11900 Darnestown Rd
Gaithersburg, MD 20878
This event and activity bag will be FREE to participants.
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
January 21, 2021 –
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.
Join us Thursday, January 21st at 6:30pm for the next in our series on Special Education during COVID-19, Supplementary Aids and Services (Accommodations) in the Virtual Environment: How to Ensure IEP Accommodations are Provided."
Families often mention the lack of follow through or "adaptation" of certain supplementary aids and services in the virtual environment.
This webinar will address:
*The importance of supplementary aids and services for student success
*The legal requirements behind this section of the IEP and ASDM plan
*Tips on how to address issues with teachers and the IEP team
*Ideas on specific kinds of accommodations for virtual learning
Families are encouraged to have their IEPS on hand to follow along during the discussion.
Speakers:
Beth Benevides, Howard County Autism Society(HCAS)/Hussman Institute for Autism
Leslie Seid Margolis, Disability Rights Maryland (DRM)
Yvonne Cox, Instructional Interventions, Howard County Public Schools (HCPSS)
Submit questions as you register. There will also be time for Q & A during the webinar.
FREE to attend but REGISTRATION is REQUIRED to receive the Webex login by email.
Questions? Contact 410-290-3466 or melissa.rosenberg@howard-autism.org
What Families Need to Know About Planning for a Loved One with Special Needs
January 22, 2021 –
Presented by Elville and Associates’ Managing 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.
To register and receive the webinar link ahead of time, please click here. Should you have questions ahead of time, please contact Community Relations Director Jeff Stauffer at 443-343-8821 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!
Yoga for Children, Teens & Adults with Autism – FREE!
January 23, 2021 –
Enjoy our weekly FREE Yoga Classes with instructors from the Yoga Center of Columbia. These classes are made possible through the generosity of The Hussman Foundation.
Participants and parents/guardians to pre-register with HCAS. This is a one-time registration. Once registered, you will be added to the list to receive, by e-mail, the videoconference login and password for any future yoga classes. You will receive this information directly from the yoga instructors before each Saturday class. You may request to unsubscribe from the list at any time.
Each class will open about 10 minutes early for participants to visit with one another. Please login at least a few minutes early to get admitted. Instructors will close the class to late arrivals promptly at 3:30pm so that instruction can begin on time and proceed without interruption. We look forward to seeing you at the next Yoga Connections session.
If you have any questions or you registered and are not receiving the weekly e-mails, contact Susanne Mason at susanne.mason@howard-autism.org.
This group is designed for independent adults with autism ages 24+. Currently meeting virtually each Saturday at 5:30pm. To join, email ekmyers@gmail.com.
Cecil County Public Schools’ Parent Resource Center Virtual Support Sessions
January 25, 2021 –
An informal opportunity for parents to chat with each
other and the PRC staff, share strategies, and to network
with other families with children with special needs or
developmental delays.
Join Elville and Associates’ Principal and senior elder law attorney Lindsay V.R. Moss as she offers this webinar presentation that will shed light on options for pre-crisis planning techniques and asset protection as well as crisis planning techniques and what assistance is available.
Topics to be discussed include:
Pre-Crisis Planning and Asset Protection (utilizing Medicaid’s 5-year look back)
Estate planning techniques for married couples vs. single individuals
Join Pathfinders for Autism for an Indoor Family Friendly Scavenger Hunt. Gather your entire family and be ready to earn points for the items you can find from our list of 25. Earn points for each item you are able to retrieve, with the opportunity to collect BONUS points as well. Tally your points and the winning team will receive PFA Swag!
Limited to 40 teams, so register TODAY! Each Team Captain (person from the household who registers), will receive a zoom link and instructions within 24 hours of game time.
Yoga for Children, Teens & Adults with Autism – FREE!
January 30, 2021 –
Enjoy our weekly FREE Yoga Classes with instructors from the Yoga Center of Columbia. These classes are made possible through the generosity of The Hussman Foundation.
Participants and parents/guardians to pre-register with HCAS. This is a one-time registration. Once registered, you will be added to the list to receive, by e-mail, the videoconference login and password for any future yoga classes. You will receive this information directly from the yoga instructors before each Saturday class. You may request to unsubscribe from the list at any time.
Each class will open about 10 minutes early for participants to visit with one another. Please login at least a few minutes early to get admitted. Instructors will close the class to late arrivals promptly at 3:30pm so that instruction can begin on time and proceed without interruption. We look forward to seeing you at the next Yoga Connections session.
If you have any questions or you registered and are not receiving the weekly e-mails, contact Susanne Mason at susanne.mason@howard-autism.org.
This group is designed for independent adults with autism ages 24+. Currently meeting virtually each Saturday at 5:30pm. To join, email ekmyers@gmail.com.
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.
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
February 4, 2021 –
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.
Parenting and High Functioning Autism: Skills and Strategies to Better Support Your Child or Teen
February 4, 2021 –
Children and Adolescents with high-functioning autism (HFA) face many challenges including difficulties with sensory overload, deficits in social skills and communication, rigidity, and poor emotion regulation. Additionally, it is common for co-occurring conditions to be present such as ADHD, OCD, Anxiety and Depression. This workshop will assist parents to better understand the complexity of HFA, learn skills and strategies to improve interactions with their child or teen, and to assist their child or teen in learning emotion regulation; how to reduce overstimulation, stress and anxiety; and, how to improve social interactions to bring about overall improvements in functional daily living and self-esteem. Presented by Tana Hope, Ph.D. The Child and Family Therapy Clinic Department of Behavioral Psychology at Kennedy Krieger Institute
Participants must register via https://sercparentinghfanight.eventbrite.com
for the Thursday, February 04, 2021 7:00 p.m.-8:30 p.m session.
Please contact serc@bcps.org for additional information
Support Group of the Autism Society of Baltimore-Chesapeake
February 4, 2021 –
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
Parenting and High Functioning Autism: Skills and Strategies to Better Support Your Child or Teen
February 6, 2021 –
Children and Adolescents with high-functioning autism (HFA) face many challenges including difficulties with sensory overload, deficits in social skills and communication, rigidity, and poor emotion regulation. Additionally, it is common for co-occurring conditions to be present such as ADHD, OCD, Anxiety and Depression. This workshop will assist parents to better understand the complexity of HFA, learn skills and strategies to improve interactions with their child or teen, and to assist their child or teen in learning emotion regulation; how to reduce overstimulation, stress and anxiety; and, how to improve social interactions to bring about overall improvements in functional daily living and self-esteem. Presented by Tana Hope, Ph.D. The Child and Family Therapy Clinic Department of Behavioral Psychology at Kennedy Krieger Institute
Register via Eventbrite for the Saturday, February 06, 2021 11a.m.-12:30 p.m. session.
Yoga for Children, Teens & Adults with Autism – FREE!
February 6, 2021 –
Enjoy our weekly FREE Yoga Classes with instructors from the Yoga Center of Columbia. These classes are made possible through the generosity of The Hussman Foundation.
Participants and parents/guardians to pre-register with HCAS. This is a one-time registration. Once registered, you will be added to the list to receive, by e-mail, the videoconference login and password for any future yoga classes. You will receive this information directly from the yoga instructors before each Saturday class. You may request to unsubscribe from the list at any time.
Each class will open about 10 minutes early for participants to visit with one another. Please login at least a few minutes early to get admitted. Instructors will close the class to late arrivals promptly at 3:30pm so that instruction can begin on time and proceed without interruption. We look forward to seeing you at the next Yoga Connections session.
If you have any questions or you registered and are not receiving the weekly e-mails, contact Susanne Mason at susanne.mason@howard-autism.org.
This group is designed for independent adults with autism ages 24+. Currently meeting virtually each Saturday at 5:30pm. To join, email ekmyers@gmail.com.
Sensory Sensitive Sundays at Chuck E. Cheese
BCPS SECAC Meeting