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.
Looking for a camp for your child to make friends, spend time outside, and explore nature? SENSE-sational Summers at Meadowside is a program intentionally designed for campers with different abilities. During the week, campers will go on hikes, learn about ecosystems and habitats, meet the nature center animals, explore Rock Creek, and make crafts. *Nature Camp will provide a low staff-camper ratio of 1:2 with a small camp size. Every camper and parent/guardian must complete a Modification Intake Form to help us learn more about each camper and to develop activities that support all abilities. Activities are subject to change due to inclement weather and camper needs and interest. One on one supervision will not be provided. Most outdoor surfaces are not paved, and the trails will be a mix of uneven dirt (small hills, tree roots, and small rocks), grass, and/or mulch. This is a half-day, week-long camp, from 9:00 am to 12:00 pm.
This camp will take place at Meadowside Nature Center. Please note that exhibits at the nature center will not be available to campers due to renovations.
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 5, 2023 –
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.
HCAS Family Support Group* Support for families navigating the Autism Spectrum, newly-diagnosed to adult A traditional support/discussion group led by parents for parents and caregivers First Thursday of the month, 7:30-9:00PM This support group is currently virtual via Zoom. We hope to offer in-person options later in the year. FREE but a ONE-TIME REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED.…
If you have already registered for the HCAS Family Support Group, you do NOT need to register again.
Questions? Contact HCAS at 410-290-3466 or info@howard-autism.org
Pathfinders for Autism and Child’s Heart Yoga are teaming up for a series of FREE yoga classes to provide a much needed mental health break for everyone.
Join us for a free, virtual, all ages, family friendly yoga class taught by Bridget Strama of Child’s Heart Yoga. The event(s) are free, but a one-time registration is required. Please note: This is a new registration form and any previous registrants will need to re-register.
A Zoom link will be sent out before each class to join in. You only need to register once to sign up for the series. Feel free to attend one or all of the classes!
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
VIdeo Group for Spouses/Partners of Adults with Asperger's
January 8, 2023 –
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.
Looking for a camp for your child to make friends, spend time outside, and explore nature? SENSE-sational Summers at Meadowside is a program intentionally designed for campers with different abilities. During the week, campers will go on hikes, learn about ecosystems and habitats, meet the nature center animals, explore Rock Creek, and make crafts. *Nature Camp will provide a low staff-camper ratio of 1:2 with a small camp size. Every camper and parent/guardian must complete a Modification Intake Form to help us learn more about each camper and to develop activities that support all abilities. Activities are subject to change due to inclement weather and camper needs and interest. One on one supervision will not be provided. Most outdoor surfaces are not paved, and the trails will be a mix of uneven dirt (small hills, tree roots, and small rocks), grass, and/or mulch. This is a half-day, week-long camp, from 9:00 am to 12:00 pm.
This camp will take place at Meadowside Nature Center. Please note that exhibits at the nature center will not be available to campers due to renovations.
xMinds - People of the Global Majority Parent Discussion Group
January 9, 2023 –
Hosted by the xMinds BIPOC Committee
Date: Monday, January 9, 2023
Future Dates: Monday, February 6, 2023; February 6 and the 1st Monday of every month thereafter, with adjustments for holidays.
Time: 7:00 PM – 7:45 PM
Location: Virtual (register to receive your Zoom link)
Cost: Free
For MoCo parents/guardians of autistic students who are Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC). Hosted by the xMinds BIPOC Outreach Committee. Daria Hall, chair of the Committee will facilitate.
Take a break from your busy schedule! Put your feet up, click your link, and take this opportunity to chat, connect, and share experiences with other parents in the BIPOC community.
This month, on Monday, January 9, Special guests Diana Varela and Caroline Mason from the Social Security Administration will join us to speak about social security benefits for children with disabilities. These benefits are available to children of all ages, including adult children. The presentation will cover eligibility requirements for Supplemental Security Income (SSI), the application process, disability determinations, and the appeals process. Come and ask your questions!
VIdeo Group for Spouses/Partners of Adults with Asperger's
January 10, 2023 –
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.
xMinds Lunch and Learn on Executive Functioning Challenges for ASD Students
January 11, 2023 –
An xMinds Event
Date and Time: Friday, January 13 @ 12 noon to 1:00 PM
Presenters:
Marci Skigen, Executive Functioning Specialist, Educational Therapist, Special Education Advocate, and founder of Enhance EFS
Rachel Sushner, Executive Functioning Specialist, Educational Therapist, and College Consultant at Enhance EFS
Cost: Free
Location: Online -- Register to receive your Zoom link
Is your child overwhelmed by where to start, struggling to meet deadlines and avoiding tasks?
Executive Functioning is a challenge for most autistic and neurodiverse students, and these challenges can affect all aspects of a student's life -- from schoolwork to family life and social relationships. Marci and Rachel will answer your questions and offer practical ideas to strengthen executive functioning skills.
Bring your questions, and join us for this presentation and Q&A.
** Spanish Interpretation will be available **
Un Evento de xMinds
Fecha y hora: Viernes, 13 de enero @ 12:00 a 1:00 PM
Presentadora:
Marci Skigen, Especialista en funcionamiento ejecutivo, terapeuta educativo, defensor de la educación especial y fundador de Enhance EFS
Rachel Sushner, Especialista en funcionamiento ejecutivo, terapeuta educativo y consultor universitario en Enhance EFS
Costo: Gratis
Ubicación: En Línea—Regístrese para recibir su enlace de Zoom.
¿Su hijo está abrumado por saber por dónde empezar, luchando por cumplir con los plazos y evitando tareas?
El funcionamiento ejecutivo es un desafío para la mayoría de los estudiantes autistas y neurodiversos, y estos desafíos pueden afectar todos los aspectos de la vida de un estudiante, desde el trabajo escolar hasta la vida familiar y las relaciones sociales. Marci y Rachel responderán sus preguntas y ofrecerán ideas prácticas para fortalecer las habilidades del funcionamiento ejecutivo.
Traiga sus preguntas y únase a nosotros para esta presentación y preguntas y respuestas.
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
Parent Support Group - Open to the Public
For the past decade, we have provided free monthly support for parents of neurodiverse young adults.
Join Rick Silver, MD and other Thrive staff every third Thursday of the month for a presentation on raising neurodiverse and neurodivergent kids – Asperger’s, ADHD/ Executive Dysfunction – and move you and your young adult more smoothly towards independence.
Topics have included:
ADHD/ Executive Function
Social Skills
Screen Overuse
Transitioning to College
ASD/ Asperger’s
Jobs/ Careers
xMinds Basics Series: Understanding IEPs v. 504 Plans v. Service Plans and Accommodations v. Modifications: What Supports are Right for Your Child?
January 11, 2023 –
An xMinds Event -- Special Education Basics Series
Desplácese hacia abajo para español
Date and Time: Tuesday, January 10 @ 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Future Dates: The first Tuesday of every month at 7:00 PM. See the full schedule for the Special Education Basics Series here: xMinds Special Education Basics Series
Presenters:
Marci Skigen, Executive Functioning Specialist, Educational Therapist, Special Education Advocate, and founder of Enhance EFS
Rachel Sushner, Executive Functioning Specialist, Educational Therapist, and College Consultant at Enhance EFS
Naomi Rubinstein, Family Educator and Social Learning Specialist
Cost: Free
Location: Online -- Register to receive your Zoom link.
Navigating the special education system, and all its components, can feel overwhelming! Our panelists will explain the important differences among the various education support plans and will share examples of common accommodations and modifications that these plans include for autistic students. We will discuss each of the following: IFSPs, IEPs, 504 plans, Service Plans, and private school education plans.
The presentation will be followed by questions and answers. Come and get your questions answered!
** Spanish Interpretation will be available **
Un Evento de xMinds -- Serie de Conceptos Básicos de Educación Especial
Fecha y hora: Martes, 10 de Enero de 7:00 pm a 9:00 pm
Fechas futuras: el primer Martes de cada mes a las 7:00 pm.
Presentadora:
Marci Skigen, Especialista en funcionamiento ejecutivo, terapeuta educativo, defensor de la educación especial y fundador de Enhance EFS
Rachel Sushner, Especialista en funcionamiento ejecutivo, terapeuta educativo y consultor universitario en Enhance EFS
Naomi Rubinstein, Educadora familiar y especialista en aprendizaje social.
Costo: Gratis
Ubicación: En Línea: Regístrese para recibir su enlace de Zoom.
Navegar por el sistema de educación especial y todos sus componentes puede resultar abrumador. Nuestros panelistas explicarán las diferencias importantes entre los diversos planes de apoyo educativo y compartirán ejemplos de adaptaciones y modificaciones comunes que estos planes incluyen para estudiantes autistas. Discutiremos cada uno de los siguientes: IFSP, IEP, planes 504, planes de servicio y planes de educación de escuelas privadas.
La presentación será seguida por preguntas y respuestas. ¡Ven y resuelve tus dudas!
Sensory events are specifically designed for children ages 3-7 years who are neurodiverse or with different sensory abilities. Our sensory movie will include lights on, sound down, hands busy and feet can be moving. Registration is required. This is a limited capacity event. Siblings welcome. Please register once per family
January's movie: Shrek
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
Looking for a camp for your child to make friends, spend time outside, and explore nature? SENSE-sational Summers at Meadowside is a program intentionally designed for campers with different abilities. During the week, campers will go on hikes, learn about ecosystems and habitats, meet the nature center animals, explore Rock Creek, and make crafts. *Nature Camp will provide a low staff-camper ratio of 1:2 with a small camp size. Every camper and parent/guardian must complete a Modification Intake Form to help us learn more about each camper and to develop activities that support all abilities. Activities are subject to change due to inclement weather and camper needs and interest. One on one supervision will not be provided. Most outdoor surfaces are not paved, and the trails will be a mix of uneven dirt (small hills, tree roots, and small rocks), grass, and/or mulch. This is a half-day, week-long camp, from 9:00 am to 12:00 pm.
This camp will take place at Meadowside Nature Center. Please note that exhibits at the nature center will not be available to campers due to renovations.
If your child has recieved an autism spectrum disorder diagnosis and you are wondering how to best support them now and into adulthood, this is the seminar for you. Join us for an informative session that will arm you with tools and resources to utilize as you begin your journey as an "Autism parent or caregiver."
This event will be led by professionals who specialize in behavior and supporting families like yours
About the organization:
We affirm children, teens, and young adults who exhibit social, emotional, learning, and behavioral concerns using Applied Behavior Analysis(ABA) with a strengths-based and trauma informed approach. We not only uplift children and teens , but empower parents and siblings of our neurodivergent and/or disabled clients with the common goal of enhancing the quality of life for the entire household through the provision of mental health services, parent guidance, advocacy tools, and group sessions.
Contact Name : Denisha Gingles
Contact Email : info@signatureaba.com
Location: Signature Behavioral Health 7001 Johnnycake Road Suite 106 Windsor Mill, MD 21244
This presentation focuses on the tools of financial independence and how to be more in control of your financial life with planning. Liz Yoder from Planning Across the Spectrum will talk about:
• Basic banking and money concepts
• What you can do to maximize your money
• Ways to plan for the future
VIdeo Group for Spouses/Partners of Adults with Asperger's
January 19, 2023 –
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.
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
Looking for a camp for your child to make friends, spend time outside, and explore nature? SENSE-sational Summers at Meadowside is a program intentionally designed for campers with different abilities. During the week, campers will go on hikes, learn about ecosystems and habitats, meet the nature center animals, explore Rock Creek, and make crafts. *Nature Camp will provide a low staff-camper ratio of 1:2 with a small camp size. Every camper and parent/guardian must complete a Modification Intake Form to help us learn more about each camper and to develop activities that support all abilities. Activities are subject to change due to inclement weather and camper needs and interest. One on one supervision will not be provided. Most outdoor surfaces are not paved, and the trails will be a mix of uneven dirt (small hills, tree roots, and small rocks), grass, and/or mulch. This is a half-day, week-long camp, from 9:00 am to 12:00 pm.
This camp will take place at Meadowside Nature Center. Please note that exhibits at the nature center will not be available to campers due to renovations.
PFA Presents: Autism and Everyday Executive Function (Webinar)
January 25, 2023 –
This presentation will be based on a simple statement made by an adult autistic friend of mine, “Autism changes the rules”, she said. “In fact, it is more important for an autistic person to learn executive functions than it is to learn social skills.”
Executive Functions essentially control our behavior and emotions, but for the autistic person this can be difficult. This presentation will be about the Executive Functions, but more importantly, there will be detailed suggestions for how to access and strengthen these functions specifically for the autistic individual. The ideas shared will be simple, direct, and applicable for home and school.
xMinds - Let's Talk Transitions - Parent discussion Group
January 25, 2023 –
Hosted by the xMinds Committee on Student Transitions to Adulthood
Date: Wednesday, January 25, 2023
Future dates: Wednesday February 15 (3rd Wednesday), and then the 4th Wednesday of every month, with adjustments for holidays.
Time: 7:00 PM – 7:45 PM
Location: Virtual
Cost: Free
The xMinds Committee on Student Transitions to Adulthood is hosting a monthly online discussion group for Montgomery County parents of an autistic student in middle or high school. Parents in other locations are also welcome!
On January 25 we will have a guest presenter to discuss Project Search. Abigail Hoffman (Services Outreach and Quality Specialist), Tona Craviotto (Employment Services Program Director), Veronica Lawrence (Public Benefits Specialist) and Nancy Eaby (Project Search Program Director) from SEEC (Seeking Employment, Equality and Community for People with Developmental Disabilities) will give a presentation on the employment-related services that SEEC provides to young people transitioning from high school, and how these services can be funded by state agencies such as DORS and DDA.
Instead of our usual 45 minutes, we are scheduling an hour, so that there will be enough time for questions.
Take a break from your busy schedule! Put your feet up, click your link, and take this opportunity to chat, connect, and share experiences with other local parents who are considering their autistic teen's post-high school plans.
xMinds now hosts a Facebook group that shares the resources that come up in these discussions. Want to join it? Just click this link and the moderator will approve you. https://www.facebook.com/groups/618351869265897
Also, if you're looking for information, see our Transition Resources page.
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
Looking for a camp for your child to make friends, spend time outside, and explore nature? SENSE-sational Summers at Meadowside is a program intentionally designed for campers with different abilities. During the week, campers will go on hikes, learn about ecosystems and habitats, meet the nature center animals, explore Rock Creek, and make crafts. *Nature Camp will provide a low staff-camper ratio of 1:2 with a small camp size. Every camper and parent/guardian must complete a Modification Intake Form to help us learn more about each camper and to develop activities that support all abilities. Activities are subject to change due to inclement weather and camper needs and interest. One on one supervision will not be provided. Most outdoor surfaces are not paved, and the trails will be a mix of uneven dirt (small hills, tree roots, and small rocks), grass, and/or mulch. This is a half-day, week-long camp, from 9:00 am to 12:00 pm.
This camp will take place at Meadowside Nature Center. Please note that exhibits at the nature center will not be available to campers due to renovations.
xMinds - Hablemos Educación Especial Grupo de Discusión de Padres
February 1, 2023 –
Organizado por el Comité de Hispano de xMinds
Fecha: El Miércoles 1 de Febrero de 2022
Fechas Futuros: el 1 de Marzo, y el primer Miércoles de cada mes a partir de entonces, con ajustes para los días festivos.
Hora: 7:00 PM - 7:45 PM
Ubicación: Virtual (regístrese para recibir su enlace de Zoom)
Costo: Gratis
El comité de xMinds sobre el alcance del idioma español está organizando un grupo de discusión en línea mensual en español para los padres de un estudiante autista del condado de Montgomery.
¡Tómese un descanso de su apretada agenda! Ponga los pies en alto, haga clic en su enlace y aproveche esta oportunidad para charlar, conectarse y compartir experiencias con otros padres de habla hispana que están criando a un niño autista y navegando por la educación especial en MoCo.
Hosted by the xMinds Spanish Language Outreach Committee
Date: Wednesday, February 1
Future Dates: March 1; and the 1st Wednesday of every month thereafter, with adjustments for holidays.
Time: 7:00 PM – 7:45 PM
Location: Virtual (register to receive your Zoom link)
Cost: Free
The xMinds committee on Spanish Language Outreach is hosting a monthly online discussion group in Spanish for Montgomery County parents of an autistic student.
Take a break from your busy schedule! Put your feet up, click your link, and take this opportunity to chat, connect, and share experiences with other Spanish-speaking parents who are raising an autistic child and navigating special education in MoCo.
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 2, 2023 –
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.
HCAS Family Support Group* Support for families navigating the Autism Spectrum, newly-diagnosed to adult A traditional support/discussion group led by parents for parents and caregivers First Thursday of the month, 7:30-9:00PM This support group is currently virtual via Zoom. We hope to offer in-person options later in the year. FREE but a ONE-TIME REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED.…
If you have already registered for the HCAS Family Support Group, you do NOT need to register again.
Questions? Contact HCAS at 410-290-3466 or info@howard-autism.org
Pathfinders for Autism and Child’s Heart Yoga are teaming up for a series of FREE yoga classes to provide a much needed mental health break for everyone.
Join us for a free, virtual, all ages, family friendly yoga class taught by Bridget Strama of Child’s Heart Yoga. The event(s) are free, but a one-time registration is required. Please note: This is a new registration form and any previous registrants will need to re-register.
A Zoom link will be sent out before each class to join in. You only need to register once to sign up for the series. Feel free to attend one or all of the classes!
Sensory Sensitive Sundays
xMinds - People of the Global Majority Parent Discussion Group