Dear Friend of ASO:
NEWS
FROM ASO
Changes coming at Ohio Department of Education?
You may have seen some articles in the newspapers recently regarding changes in leadership at the Ohio Department of Education and that perhaps Ohio Superintendent of Public Instruction, Dr. Susan Zelman, might be stepping down. There has been no official announcements regarding Dr. Zelman stepping down and someone different replacing her. Also, to make a change from a "Superintendent" of Education and the State Board of Education system that we have now to a Director of the Department of Education as Governor Strickland recently proposed (similar to ODMRDD or ODJFS) would require legislation. We will keep you posted on any new developments.
Also, there has been no official announcement regarding a replacement for the Greg Maloney, the previous Director of the Ohio Department of Education, Office for Exceptional Children, who left at the end of February. ODE has been holding interviews for the position, however. We will make you aware as soon as any announcement is made.
NOW OPEN! – 2008 NATTAP
Conference Registration
The Autism Society of America (ASA) and Ohio Center for Autism and Low
Incidence (OCALI) present the 2nd annual international conference on
autism training and technical assistance. The objectives of
the conference are to review current systems models for addressing the
needs of individuals with autism spectrum disorders (ASD), promote use
of best practice in research and intervention and provide methods for
capacity building – all of which contribute to the ultimate
goal of improving outcomes for individuals ages 3-21. Join the
estimated 1,500-2,000 attendees from across the national and around the
globe.
NEW for 2008! Pre-Conference Sessions - November 18, 2008
Pre-Conference sessions are provided by leaders and recognized experts
in the field and provide attendees with a valuable opportunity for
in-depth discussion and learning.
What: 2008 NATTAP Conference
When: November 19-21, 2008
Where: Greater Columbus Convention Center | Columbus, OH
Early Bird Rate: $185
Parent/Family Member Rate: $100
Pre-Conference Session Rate: $100
Conference registration and information available at: http://www.nattapconference.org
The Autism Society
of Ohio has provided a grant to OCALI reducing the registration rate
for parents from last year's $185 to $100 for all three days of the
conference! Register NOW!
2008 ASA
National Conference
July 9-12, 2008
Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center
Orlando, Florida
2008
Keynoters:
Temple Grandin, Ph.D., Bob Hendren, D.O., & James
Ball, Ph.D., BCBA
The Autism Society of America recognizes that
families and individuals living with an autism spectrum disorder have a
range of issues and needs. The National Conference of the Autism
Society of America is the only conference that addresses the range of
issues, including early intervention, education, employment, behavior,
communication, social skills, biomedical interventions and others,
across the entire lifespan. Bringing together the expertise and
experiences of family members, professionals and individuals on the
spectrum, attendees are able to learn how to more effectively advocate
and obtain supports for the individual with ASD. The ultimate goal is
to empower family members, individuals on the spectrum and
professionals to make informed decisions.
Registration
& Conference Schedule
Go to www.autism-society.org/conference
for the detailed 2008 ASA National Conference schedule. All session
descriptions and speakers are now listed online, with over 200 speakers
and 150 sessions. Be sure to register for the conference online by May
1, 2008, to take advantage of Early Bird Registration prices
(Individuals on the Spectrum: $150 & Full Conference Attendees:
$220).
Exhibitors
Don't miss your opportunity to exhibit at the
largest autism conference in the U.S. this year. Network with
professionals, families, service providers and more. For more
information, contact Meg Ellacott, 2008 ASA National Conference Exhibit
Director, at
This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it
or 302.260.9487. Be sure to secure your spot now.
Respite
Child Care
Bring your entire family. Orlando is a great family
vacation location. ASA is partnering with Quest, Inc., to provide
respite care onsite. For more information, contact ASA at
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.
Continuing
Education Credits
BCBA, ASHA and CME credits are available.
For session information, contact Autism Society of America at
This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it
.
The Autism Research Institute presents the Defeat Autism Now (DAN!)
Clinician Seminar for professionals on Wednesday, July 9, 2008.
For information about the conference, contact Autism Society America Conference Department at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or call 301.657.0881, ext. 10.
Upcoming
Events, Resources, etc:
- Central Ohio Autism
Society April Meeting to
feature Sean Barron, Columbus
- Autism Society of NW Ohio Activities
- SE Ohio ASA and ARC Ohio: “Planning for your Son/Daughter’s Legal and Financial Future”, Athens
- Autism Society of Greater Cleveland presents "Financial Planning for the Special Needs Family"
- “What Adults With Disabilities Wish All Parents Knew”, Toledo
- CRUISE 4 AUTISM
- The Milestones Organization Autism/Asperger's Conference
- Nisonger Interviewing individuals with ASD that are successfully employed
- Presentation: Prosecution of Crimes Against Vulnerable Victims, Lima
- Upcoming Events, OAR Run, NE Ohio
- BE THE PIECE College Scholarship Fundraiser, Central Ohio
- Elements of Applied Behavior Analysis in Educational Settings, NE Ohio
- Autism Open House at Pump It Up of Medina
- A Day at Cedar Point
- Rock The Puzzle for Autism, NE Ohio
- New Book from AAPC by adult with Aspergers
- Audio Conference: Employer Best Practices: Recruitment and Hiring of People with Disabilities
- DD Quarterly newsletter now available online
- Children's Buy-In program will offer health insurance benefits to children with special needs
- Kidslink Activities, Akron
- Self-Awareness, Self-Advocacy and Self-Acceptance...... (social skills newsletter)
- Enjoy a Day of Fishing With Fishing Has No Boundaries - Central Ohio
- Wrestle Against Autism, Central Ohio
- Life Planning Seminars for Families and People with Disabilities, Cincinnati area
- EMERGENCY RESPONSE GUIDE FOR PERSONS WITH AUTISM OR ALZHEIMER'S DISEASE
- AUTISM ONE 2008 CONFERENCE, Chicago
- Resource: Understanding Asperger Syndrome: A Professor’s Guide
If you are interested in participating in research
projects, ASO is now posting all research opportunities on our website.
For information on available opportunities, visit our webpage www.autismohio.org,
click on "Information" along the left side of the home page and then
click on "Studies/Surveys".
Have
you purchased your Ohio Autism Awareness License Plate yet? To purchase
yours, visit www.oplates.com
and click on "Specialty Plates" or visit our website at www.autismohio.org
for more information.
Sincerely,
The Autism Society of Ohio
701 S. Main St.
Akron, OH 44311
(330) 376-0211
fax: (330) 376-1226
email:
This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it
web: www.autismohio.org
Please note: This is provided for information
purposes only. The ASO does not endorse or recommend any
providers, methodologies or services. Providing this information should
not be construed as an endorsement by the ASO, either explicit or
impiled.
Central Ohio Autism
Society April Meeting to feature Sean Barron, Columbus
Our
April meeting will be on Wednesday, April 30, at the Columbus Speech
and Hearing Center at North Broadway and Indianola [map at http://tinyurl.com/3oexad
] in another partnership with the Ohio State
University’s Nisonger Center and Aspirations. Sean
Barron will be coming to speak to young adults on the autism spectrum
and their parents for the Aspirations Recap meeting. He will
have dinner with the young adults and then speak to everyone from 7:30
to 8:30. Our chapter is helping to financially support his
visit. You are invited to hear his presentation to
families. Sean is an adult with ASD, an author, and
a reporter for the Youngstown Vindicator.
Future Horizons published the two the books he co-authored:
https://www.fhautism.com/cgi-bin/shopper.cgi For
more information visit: http://www.autism-centralohio.com/
Please RSVP at Nancy Beu at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .
Autism Society of
NW Ohio Activities
Mud
Hens
Game
Come join us for an afternoon of fun.
We are
reserving a section of seats at Fifth Third Field behind the Mud
Hen’s dugout for our families to sit together and enjoy the
game. It will be Dora the
Explorer Day so kids can meet-n- 
greet Dora the
Explorer. Kids can get autographs from featured Mud Hens players before
the game starts and after the game kids can run the bases.
Admission:
Tickets must be purchased in advance from the Autism Society for $8 per
ticket (a one dollar discount per ticket.)
There will be a limited number of seats
for families with peanut allergies. Call the office for more
information.
When:
Sunday, April 27
Game
starts at 1 PM
Where:
Fifth Third Field
406
Washington
Toledo,
OH
To
purchase tickets: Call the office to arrange a time or buy them on our
website www.asno.org . PLEASE purchase your tickets NO LATER
THAN April 25.
EXTRA:
For every ticket you purchase, your loved one with autism will have a
chance to win the opportunity to throw out the first pitch of the game.
Promising New
Treatments for Patients with Fragile X Syndrome and Autism
Presenter: Dr. Elizabeth Berry-Kravis
RUSH University Medical Center
When: Tuesday, April 29, 2008
Check in and dessert: 6 pm
Presentation: 6:30 - 9 pm
Where: Toledo Hospital Education Center Auditorium
(between the Jobst and McIntosh Towers at Toledo Hospital)
2109 Hughes Drive, Toledo OH
For online directions: Go to promedica.org, highlight
Hospitals, scroll down to The Toledo Hospital, then select Maps and
Directions.
IMPORTANT: There is no charge for this presentation, but
pre-registration by Wednesday, April 24 is required. Please help us
make this a successful event by pre-registering in a timely manner.
To register: Please call 419-578-2766 or email
This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it
with
the names of the individuals attending and a contact phone number.
Please indicate whether you are a parent or professional and what
county you live in.
“Planning
for your Son/Daughter’s Legal and Financial Future”
Please click the link below to register for the very important training
on Saturday, May 10th in Athens, Ohio:
http://www.thearcofohio.org/index.php?option=com_events&task=view_detail&agid=82&year=2008&month=05&day=10&Itemid=50
This training is FREE for families and individuals.
Professionals are $75. ODMR/DD CEU’s being offered.
Sponsored in part by the SE Ohio ASA Chapter.
The ASGC meets at 6:30 P.M. the first Tuesday of every month at the Cuyahoga Valley Career Center on 8001 Brecksville Rd. in Brecksville Ohio.
Directions:
Based on the book titled
“Reflections from a Different Journey”
By
Stanley Klein, PhD & John Kemp
P.E.E.R.S
People Exemplifying Excellence With Real-Life Stories
These people are often identified as P.E.E.R.S. The NCFC is going to provide an opportunity
For children born with a disability/developmental delay (DD) Or the parents of a child w/DD to see and hear from these very people Who have also had to overcome tremendous fears, barriers and challenges
And who have fought to gain a rightful place in their community For themselves or their children.
These people are positive role models, advocates, teachers and leaders Exemplifying the excellence they have fought to achieve By believing their future is attainable. We will provide this opportunity in a four part educational series Focusing on Family Life, Education, Vocational, and Social/Recreational topics.
Parents and their children will hear from four panelists Which will consist of parents, consumers and one local expert, Sharing the wisdom and skills they have gained From their personal life’s experience
Session I: Family Life, Sat. May 3, 08 Session II: Education Sat. May 9, 08
Session III: Vocation, Sat. May 17, 08 Session IV: Rec/Social Sat. May 31, 08
The Emergency Management Services (EMS) Building
2127 Jefferson St., Toledo, Ohio 43604
11:00 am. – 1:00 pm.
(Child care & Lunch will be provided for all sessions)
Northwest Ohio Center
for
Families and Children
2238 Jefferson Ave. 2nd Floor
Toledo, Ohio 43604
2008
Topics in Child Development Conference:
June 26th and 27th - Kent State University
Topics in Child Development: Effective Use of Behavioral Interventions for Individuals With Autism Spectrum Disorders.
Individuals with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) present with a wide variety of strengths and needs. Within the context of a behavioral approach to intervention, parents, educators, and other professionals can develop and enhance positive academic and behavioral skills while simultaneously addressing disruptive behaviors. The 2008 Topics in Child Development Conference will focus on behavioral approaches to intervention that can assist in enhancing existing skills and building new skills to promote success across multiple settings. For complete details, visit: http://www.ehhs.kent.edu/PDO/conferences.cfm
For information on the 2008 conference, please contact Kathy Brown at 330.672.0537 or This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it
In September, 2007, Sondra Williams spoke at a church workshop. Her presentation, titled, "Exiled No More," addressed some of her faith journey, her struggles with ASD (an autism spectrum disorder), and issues she faced in becoming a welcomed member of a church community.
Note that this is an mp3 (audio) download which you'll be able to access and listen to after providing payment details.
*NOTE: Through April, 2008, The Gray Center will donate 100% of the proceeds from the sale of this mp3 download to our newly developed Sondra Williams Endowment Fund. Thank you for your support!
Retail Price:
Our Price: $6.95 - You Save $3.00!
For more info, click here
The Milestones Organization Autism/Asperger's Conference
http://www.milestones.org/news_conferences.htm
Annual Conference
2008 Conference
The 6th
Annual Milestones Organization Autism/Asperger's Conference
Life-Long
Strategies for Success: School, Home, Community and Work
At Executive
Caterers at Landerhaven
This
conference is for you
if you are a . . .
special
educator • inclusion teacher • classroom aide
• speech therapist • occupational therapist
• psychologist • social worker • nurse
• music or art therapist • physical therapist
• school counselor • parent or relative of individual
with autism spectrum disorder • behavioral therapist
Schedule
Registration
Information
Fees
|
Professional
Registration Fee (price includes CEUs, continental breakfast, lunch and
binder) |
150 |
|
Professional
Group Discount per person (4 or more from same organization with single
payment) |
-$20 |
|
|
|
|
Family
Member Registration Fee (price includes continental breakfast, lunch
and binder) |
115 |
|
Family
Group Discount per person (4 or more from same organization with single
payment) |
-$20 |
|
Person
with Autism Spectrum Disorder |
$75 |
|
Lunch
without Conference Registration |
$45 |
|
Binder
without Conference Registration |
$50 |
Scholarships
A
limited amount of conference scholarship aid is available. To request a
scholarship application, please email
This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it
or call 216.371.4765. Download
Scholarship Form
Changes/Cancellations
Cancellations
will be accepted in writing until
Professional
Development (CEU's) Offered
6.0
continuing education hours are pending for counselors, educators,
nurses, psychologists, physical and occupational therapists and social
workers. .6 CEUs for Speech Languague Pathologists on various levels:
professional and related areas is pending through ASHA. Professional
development credit is pending toward a BCBA. General certificates of
attendance will also be available.
Workshop
Selection
Over
the course of the conference, there are three workshop time slots with
multiple options per time slot. Please choose one topic for each
workshop time slot.
Meals
Registration fees
include a continental breakfast and a buffet lunch. The meals include
vegetarian options. If you require a kosher meal, indicate your
preference on the registration form. It will not be possible to arrange
for special meals on-site.
Advertising/Exhibiting/Sponsorship
Information
We
invite you to promote your organization at the 2008 Conference Life-Long
Stragegies for Success: School, Home, Community and Work.
Opportunities are available to be a conference sponsor, exhibitor at
the conference, and advertiser in the conference binder. Your message
will reach 400 attendees. Download our advertising, sponsorship, and
exhibiting participation
letter and form. Contact
This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it
for further information or to indicate your interest.
Conference
Location and Directions
Executive
Caterers at Landerhaven
Questions/Special
Assistance
Please call Milestones Organization at 216-371-4765 or email at
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.
Nisonger Center at OSU (in partnership with OCALI) is interested in interviewing individuals with ASD that are successfully employed
University Nisonger Center to identify individuals on the Autism Spectrum to participate in a survey
about successful employment outcomes.
We are looking for individuals with ASD who have been
successfully working in the community for 6 months or more and would be willing to be interviewed, as
well as, share their stories with others. Interviews will be with the individual with ASD and/or their
family representative. Interviews will be by phone and should take about 30 minutes to complete. If you
are interested or have questions please contact Rachel Straus at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or 614-292-4185.
Thank you for your consideration of this matter and we really hope you will participate.
Sincerely,
Tom Fish, Ph.D. LISW
Director of Social Work and Family Services
To get the process started please fill out the general information below and e-mail responses back to
Rachel at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it Thanks again!
Individual with ASD
Name, Address, Email, Phone, Length of time employed in current position
Contact person for Interview (if different than the individual with ASD)
Name, Address, Phone, Email
Employer
Company Name, Supervisor/ Manager Name, Address, Phone, Email, Type of Work/Job Responsibilities,
Amount of hours worked per week
A University Center for Excellence
in Developmental Disabilities
257 McCampbell Hall
1581 Dodd Dr.
Columbus, OH 43210
LOCAL UPCOMING EVENTS
visit www.milestones.org/news_events.htm for more events
May 4, Friendship Circle Festival, 2:00pm - 4:00 pm
Preston's Hope, Mandell JCC Campus, Beachwood
Contact Dassi Shtern at 216-377-3000 ext. 1004 or This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it
Download Flyer
May 15 (Deadline), Helping Hand Program: Financial Aid for Autism Families
May 18, OAR Run for Autism (Organization for Autism Research )
Cleveland, OH. For questions, please contact the RUN Staff toll free at (866) 366-9710; e-mail: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .
Sign up now!
Friday, April 25, 2008 7:00 PM
Disability Resource Network Bingo Hall
3080 Westerville Road (intersection of Oakland Park
& Westerville Road)
Ticket Price: $30 each or $50.00 for 2 (may be
purchased at the door)
Eat 'til you're stuffed, dance ?'til you drop, and make college a
reality for young adults on the autism spectrum.?
Music by The Andy Shaw Duo and featuring the legendary blues of RIC
BOALS AND THE SOULS
Disability Resource Network is holding a fundraiser to raise money and
awareness for The BE THE PIECE College Scholarship Program. This is a
unique scholarship being made available for college-bound high school
graduates who are on the autism spectrum. It is the first and only
college scholarship in Ohio that is specific to these young adults.
The BE THE PIECE Scholarship Program will present a college
scholarship award of $1,000 to one student in each of the following
categories: (1) Four-year undergraduate college or university; (2)
Two-year undergraduate college; and (3) Trade, technical, or
vocational school.
The goal of The BE THE PIECE Program is to provide college capable
young adults on the autism spectrum the same opportunities and
experiences as their typical developing peers. This opportunity will
enable these deserving students achieve all they can.
For more information on the BE THE PIECE College Scholarship
fundraiser go to: www.bethepiece.org.
EDT 399/599 Section 980—1 Credit
Murray Ridge School, Elyria, Ohio
Wednesday, Thursday, Friday
9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.
June 11, 12, and 13
Ideal for individuals working with students who function along the
Autism spectrum or with limited cognitive abilities.
Topics to be addressed:
• Components of human behavior
• Applied Behavior Analysis and modification techniques
• Data collection and behavior planning systems
Reduced Tuition Rate!
Undergraduates—$18 0 Graduates—$220
Lenora Oeftering, M.Ed, Classroom Supervisor
This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or 440/329-3760
Phone: 216.687.4600 Fax: 216.687.5379 www.csuohio.edu/coehs
Sincerely,
Beth Elchlinger
Michelle Demichow
Pump it Up of Medina
Date: Wednesday, May 21, 2008
Time: Bus departs at 8:15 a.m. & returns at 7:30 p.m. (approx.)
*arrive at Cedar Point 9:45 a.m. and depart from Cedar Point at 6:00 p.m.
*park hours are 10:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Option 1: FOR THE FIRST 70 PEOPLE WHO REGISTER, Admission & Lunch are FREE
A: If you want to ride the chartered bus, TOTAL: $17.00
B: If you want to drive on your own, no additional cost
Option 2: FOR ANYONE AFTER THE FIRST 70 PEOPLE TO REGISTER
A: If you want to ride the chartered bus and get lunch: TOTAL: $48.00 (admission $23, lunch $8, bus $17)
B: If you want to drive on your own and lunch on your own: TOTAL: $23.00 (admission)
• All fees must be paid at the time of registration. No refunds!
• The group will meet at the front entrance of Cedar Point at 10:00 a.m. to distribute tickets. If you
are not there by 10:30 a.m. SHARP, you will lose your tickets (absolutely no exceptions)
*after registering, you will receive a confirmation notice in the mail, you must bring that notice with you on May 21*
House of Blues Cleveland
308 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland OH 44114
7pm - 1am
TICKETS: $100 each
Includes all entertainment, heavy hors d'oeuvres, two drink tickets and two wine tasting tickets.
Last year's event was completely sold out, so
GET YOUR TICKETS EARLY!
One of Cleveland's hottest parties is back! The evening will again consist of 6 bands and the unveiling of two new wines for autism from Grand River Cellars. Rock The Puzzle is a gala fundraising event that had its first annual debut as Cleveland Rocks Autism in April 2007. The monies raised from 2007 were donated to a national organization for research.
by Erika Hammerschmidt
Excerpt
Read reviews
$19.95 April 2008, ISBN 978-1-934575-20-8
Audience (i.e. age, profession)
Adults
Parents
When you don't feel comfortable in your own skin, life can seem strange and foreign-you try to fit in, but with every new day comes a new challenge.
Diagnosed with Asperger Syndrome, author Erica Hammerschmidt can relate. Born on the Wrong Planet is the story of her childhood and young adulthood coping with the challenges of Asperger Syndrome. The book started as a collection of stories, poems, and essays that Erika penned during high school. After high school as she studied abroad in Germany, Erika compiled them and created the first version of Born on the Wrong Planet.
May 20th, 2008 »
This session will highlight the best practices learned by the Walgreen Company and Cincinnati Children's Hospital in regards to the recruitment and hiring of people with disabilities. Participants will learn what it took within these organizations to mobilize administration, management as well as all employees in support of this effort and the benefits that they have realized as a result. Strategies and common sense approaches will be discussed. Both Walgreen's and Cincinnati Children's Hospital have become models in the business community for embracing people with disabilities as part of their diverse workforce.
Speakers:
Deb Russell, Walgreen Company
Erin Riehle, MSN, RN, Director, Project Search, Division of Disability Services, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center
Time:
2:00-3:30pm EDT (Time may be earlier depending on your time zone)
The cost for the session is $25 for nonprofits and $40 for other entities for each location, regardless of the number of participants at each location (multiple people can attend at one location for the same flat fee). There is no charge to participants who come to the following locations in Ohio: Ohio Rehabilitation Services Commission in Columbus, OH; Ability Center in Toledo, OH; Linking Employment, Ability & Potential (LEAP) in Cleveland, OH; and Southeastern Ohio Center for Independent Living (SOCIL) in Lancaster, OH. There may be other free locations in the US - please contact Great Lakes at adagreatlakes.org for those locations.
Sessions are 90 minutes in length and delivered via audio conference. Participants are in a "listen-only" mode until the question and answer period. The sessions are offered real-time captioned on the Internet, and a transcript is developed and posted to the Internet following the session. In addition, a digital recording of the session is archived on the DBTAC - Great Lakes ADA Center web site at adagreatlakes.org.
If you wish to come for no charge to RSC in Columbus, OH, please let us know by May 13 by sending an email to This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it . Registration is required to attend the session. Please provide your name, organization, address, email address, and telephone number. Please do not send a check to ADA-OHIO. If you wish to come for no charge to The Ability Center of Greater Toledo, OH, please call 419-885-5733. If you wish to come for no charge to LEAP in Cleveland, OH, please call 216-696-2716, ext. 129, for more information. If you wish to come for no charge to SOCIL in Lancaster, OH, please call 740-689-1494 for more information. If you wish to attend elsewhere, please go to web site ada-audio.org to register.
ADA-OHIO (The Americans with Disabilities Act)
700 Morse Road, Suite 101
Columbus, OH 43214
800-ADA-OHIO (800-232-6446)
800-ADA-ADA1 (800-232-2321) TTY
614-844-5537 FAX
This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it
http://www.ada-ohio.org/
ADA-OHIO is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization.
DD Quarterly - Spring 2008
News from the Ohio Developmental Disabilities Council
Text version: http://www.olrs.ohio.gov/DDQSpring08.htm
PDF version: http://www.olrs.ohio.gov/DDQSpring08.pdf
In this issue:
1. DD Quarterly Now Sent Electronically
2. ODDC Members Appointed
3. Apply Now for Medicaid Buy-In Program
4. The Ohio Center for Autism and Low Incidence Disabilities Conference
5. Chairman's Message
6. Futures Committee Recommends Changes to MRDD System
7. Director Martin Comments on the Futures Report
8. Ohio Advocates Go to Washington
9. Ohio Disability Vote Coalition Plans Presidential Forum
10. Expanding Early Intervention Outreach in Southwest Ohio
11. Transition to the Community Made Easier for Youth
12. 8th Annual Ohio Adult Sibling Conference
13. ODDC Grantee Provides Accessible Housing
14. You Still Have Time to File for Your 2007 Stimulus Payment
15. Playgrounds for All Kids
16. Law Permits Parents to Nominate Guardians
17. Shari Cooper Crowned Ms. Wheelchair Ohio
18. OLRS Files Briefs in Cases Brought by Parents for Violations of Children's Rights
19. ODDC's 2008 Annual Event
If you have questions or comments about the DD Quarterly newsletter, contact:
Tom Hemmert
Ohio Legal Rights Service
50 W. Broad St., Suite 1400
Columbus, OH 43215
Voice: 614-466-7264 or 800-282-9181
TTY: 614-728-2553 or 800-858-3542
Email: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it
Children's Buy-In program will offer health insurance benefits to children with special needs
- Enrollment is currently open for summer camps (Autism Buddy Day Camp for 4-6 year olds and Asperger Adventure Camp for 11-15 year olds).
Check out www.kidslinkohio.
Autism awareness isn't just important for adults, nor is it just important for neuro-typical persons. Autism awareness is important for people with autism spectrum disorders. Self-awareness is important for everyone. As kids grow to be adults, they learn more about themselves, discovering what they excel at and where they may have weaknesses. Self-awareness is an ongoing process throughout life.
Many people will ask "when should I tell my child about his autism or Asperger's?". I don't know if experts would agree on a specific age or even a definitive answer to this question. It is important for kids to understand that the areas they struggle with are part of how they are wired. Kids that have a disability should know that they aren't "dumb" because they don't understand certain social situations or have certain behaviors, but that these issues and behaviors stem from a disability that is real and they are not alone.
The ability to advocate for oneself is important in education as it is in life. If someone needs information, assistance, or knowledge they should seek it out. Self-advocacy is often dependent upon self-awareness. Self-awareness isn't just limited to being aware of one's difficulties, but also acknowledges and embraces one's strengths, talents and interests as well.
Self-awareness, then, for people on the spectrum means that they are aware of their disability and what it means to them. When and how this awareness occurs will differ with each individual. I have heard many stories from adults with Asperger Syndrome that have struggled through school, work and personal relationships. Only after receiving a diagnosis later in adulthood and learning more about Asperger's did they finally understand who they really are and were then able to progress in more self-acceptance.
Here are some resources that may be helpful for individuals on the spectrum as they want to learn more about ASD. This is only a brief list as there are many wonderful materials published. Hopefully I will soon have a link that will lead you to be able to purchase some of the books listed below. If you don't want to wait, I have included the name of the publisher for your information.
A Child's First Look at Autism
Pat Crissy
Published by Super Duper Publications
This book is a 22-page picture book that focuses mainly on the difficulties that kids with autism may face written in the voice of Alex, a young boy with autism. Most appropriate for elementary students.
Asperger's Huh?
A Child's Perspective
Rosina G. Schnurr, PHD
Published by Anisor Publishing
This book is particular to Asperger Syndrome and has several chapters that are complimented by occasional pictures.
This goes into more detail about areas of possible difficulty and may be most appropriate for upper elementary through middle school youth.
What Does it Mean to Me?
A workbook explaining self-awareness and life lessons to the child or youth with high Functioning Autism or Aspergers.
Catherine Faherty
Published by Future Horizons, Inc
This is one of my favorite books. It is actually a work book with many chapters. Each chapter has a section for parents and educators. This is a workbook format and not only does it highlight areas of difficulty, it also helps kids take a look at what they like and what they are good at as well. I have used this book or portions of this book with individuals as young as 8 and as old as 16. This is definitely one of my favorites.
Freeks, Geeks & Asperger Syndrome
A user Guide to Adolescence
Luke Jackson
Published by Jessica Kingsley Publishers
Another one of my favorites! Written by a 13-year old boy with Asperger Syndrome, it gives a first-hand and very positive look at Asperger Syndrome. I have heard many parents read it and consider it "the one book that every educator should read to understand a kid's perspective with AS". I have had children read this from age 10 to age 17 and many are really able to identify with the author.
Asperger Syndrome
An Owner's Manual 2
For Older Adolescents and Adults
What You, Your Parents and Friends, and Your Employer Need to Know
Ellen S. Heller Korin, M.Ed
Published by Autism Asperger Publishing Company
This book is a workbook that looks at many areas that impact teens and young adults with Asperger Syndrome from common characteristics to developing goals and creating plans. It covers many different areas including relationships, living independently, disclosure about disability and more.
Do your part to spread awareness. Please encourage others who teach, work, live or are friends with a person on the autism spectrum to subscribe to this newsletter so that they may become more aware of ideas to support individuals with social difficulties. (Also for individuals who themselves are working on increasing social abilities.)
Subscribe at www.socialperspectives.com
For Persons with Disabilities
Hoover Reservoir with
The Buckeye Boat Club
6510 Walnut Valley Drive
Galena, OH 43201-9614
8:00 Registration Begins
8:30 Continental Breakfast
($25 per Participant/$5 per Assistant)
(fee includes breakfast and lunch for participant and their assistant)
FHNB-Central Ohio Chapter
P.O. Box 15364
Columbus, OH 43215-0364
Phone: (614) 432-4726
E-mail: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it
May 1st, 2008
For more details & updates please visit:
www.mrwoa.com
www.thebuckeyewrestlingclub.com/
Location:
Ohio State University
French
Field House (some bleacher seating, lawn chairs welcome)
Start
Times:
Saturday May 17th, 2008 @ 10:00
Entry
Fee/Registration:
$35
Pre-registration w/shirt or $25 w/o shirt and $30 Day of weigh-ins. Shirts available for $15
day of the event. Admission is by donation only.
OSU Wrestlers and Coaching Staff available for
autographs and pictures throughout the day
Send Registration (must be postmarked by May 9th)
and Make Check Payable to:
MRWOA 418 West Main St
Saint Paris, OH 43072
Rules/Format:
Bracket Style
Double Elimination Tournament
--
Modified Folkstyle rules (headgear is suggested)
--
Two 2 Minute Periods running time for K-8
--
Two 3 Minute Periods running time for 9- Open
--
Both Periods Start Neutral
--
Out of Bounds Come Back in Neutral
--
All officials are OHSAA or NCAA certified or both
Awards:
Custom Medals for 1st-6th
place
Weigh-Ins:
Friday 5/16--
5:30-9:30 PM
OSU
Wrestling clinic for all paid wrestlers 6:00-8:00 @ OSU
Saturday 5/17
7:30-9:00 Div 1,2,3 (ONLY) & 9:30-11:00 Div 4,5,6 @ OSU
All weigh-ins
at French Field House
Questions: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it
Life
Planning Seminars for Families and People with Disabilities
PUTTING THE PIECES TOGETHER
BENEFITS FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES:
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
An overview of Social Security Administration benefits such as
Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Social Security Disability
Insurance (SSDI), Medicaid and Medicare benefits for people with
disabilities
Speaker: Amy Tuell, Benefits Specialist, Hamilton County Board of MRDD
Amy is extremely knowledgeable in the area of government benefits. She
is well
known throughout the region. Her presentations are easily understood by
families and staff.
There is no cost. However donations are gladly accepted to help us
provide more sessions. Checks may be made out to PLAN of Southwest Ohio
and are tax deductible. Sponsored by County MRDDS, Mental Health
Boards, NAMIs and ARCs, Non Profit agencies from Clermont, Hamilton,
Butler and Warren Counties
All sessions are the same, as they are repeated. Choose the most
convenient time and place, then register for the one that is best for
you.
Tuesday May 6th 1:00p-3:00p at The Nathaniel Greene Lodge/ Green
Township 6394 Wesselman Rd, Cincinnati, OH 45248
Tuesday May 6th 6:30p-8:30p at Butler County Mental Health Board/ 5963
Boymel Dr., Fairfield, OH 45014
Wednesday May 7th 1:00p-3:00p at The Union Township Civic Center/
Clermont County 4350 Aicholtz Rd, Cincinnati, OH 45245
Wednesday May 7th 6:30p-8:30p at Workforce One Building/ Lebanon,
Warren County
TO REGISTER: Send or call with your name, address/ phone and the
session you wish to attend to:
Kathy Morris, Community Fund Management Foundation, 1520 Madison Road,
Cincinnati, OH 45206
This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it
513-967-5612
Registration deadline: May 2, 2008
If a loved one or someone you know has Alzheimer's Disease or suffers from
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), it is important to receive a prompt and
proper emergency response in the event of a wandering incident. All
wandering incidents should be considered emergencies. The following
procedures can help families or caretakers of Alzheimer's patients or those
with ASD deliver the necessary information to 911 call centers and also
provide the necessary information to responding law enforcement officers.
In an emergency, it is important to remain calm when calling 911. If a
wandering incident has occurred, it is your responsibility to contact 911
and inform them of the incident before you begin to search. Be prepared to
provide the following information to the operator and or to responding
units. This information should already be recorded and located near your
telephone.
* Name of the child or adult
* Current photograph and physical description including gender, race, height, weight, eye & hair color, any scars or distinguishing marks
* Names, home, cell & pager numbers, addresses of parents, other caregivers
* Sensory, medical, or dietary issues & requirements if any
* Inclinations for elopement and any atypical behaviors or characteristics that may attract attention
* Favorite attractions & locations where the person may be found
* Likes, dislikes, approach and de-escalation techniques
* Communication methods, verbal/non-verbal, sign language, picture boards, written word
* ID wear, jewelry, clothing tags, printed handout card
* Map and address guide to nearby properties with water sources and dangerous locations highlighted
* Blueprint or drawing of home, with bedrooms of individual highlighted (debbaudt 2004-07)
IDENTIFICATION OPTIONS
* Medic alert style bracelet, anklet or necklace
* Joggers shoe tags
* Laminated information card hanging from belt loops, information sewn in to clothing
* Silk screened information on underclothing
* Non permanent tattoos for persons with sensory issues (www.tattooswithapurpose.com )
For additional information log on to
www.autismriskmanagement.com or www.houstoncit.org
http://www.houstoncit.org/emergency-response.html
BIOMEDICAL RESEARCH & TREATMENTS TRACK SAMPLER
MAY 21-25, 2008, CHICAGO, IL, www.autismone.org
Family Advisory Meeting
Please mark
your calendars for our next Family Advisory Meeting on Tuesday, June 10th
at the
For more information, contact This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it
Article: Social-Skills Programs Found to Yield Gains in Academic Subjects
Below please find a link to the
"Social-Skills Programs Found to Yield Gains in Academic Subjects"
This work was published by Education Week.
To view this pdf, please visit:
http://www.nattapconference.org/up_doc/SocialSkillsPrograms.pdf
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