Would your child like a letter from Santa in Braille?

Between November 15 and December 20, parents can go online at www.nfb.org and fill out a Santa Braille Letter request form. The form can also be printed and faxed to (410) 685-2340. Beginning December 1, the Braille letters from Santa will start going out to boys and girls around the country. The Braille letter will also be accompanied by a print copy (for mom and dad to read), and parents can choose the contracted or uncontracted form of Braille for the letter. Requests for letters must include the writer’s name, the child’s name, birthday, gender, mailing address, and a telephone number or e-mail address in case Santa’s helpers at the National Federation of the Blind have questions.

NEW SUPPORT GROUP FOR ADULTS SIBLINGS OF PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES

OKSIBS will host two Adult Sibling Support Group meetings in January for adult siblings, age 18 and up, who are siblings of persons with disabilities.
The informal support group will meet on Saturday, January 8th at 10:00am at the Child Study Center located at 1100 NE 13th Street in Oklahoma City. Another meeting will be held on Tuesday, January 18th at 7:00pm at the same location. The meetings will be to discuss what services and supports are needed for adult siblings in Oklahoma and how best to deliver those services.

If you are an adult sibling of a person with a disability and would like to meet other adult siblings and provide your input into services and supports for adult siblings, please make plans to attend one or both of the meetings in January.

The OKSIBS is a collaborative initiative funded by the Oklahoma Developmental Disabilities Council and sponsored by Sooner Success, a program of the Child Study Center at OUHSC Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics Section. If you are interested in more information about these meetings or to RSVP for the meetings, please contact Lori Wathen, State Sibshop Coordinator 405-271-5700 extension 45180, toll free 877-441-0434 or lori-wathen@ouhsc.edu.

National Inclusive Schools Week 2010 is happening December 6-10

I am Norm is a fun and creative teaching tool for educators, club and scout leaders, and other youth organizations. I am Norm is a perfect way to celebrate Inclusive Schools Week! Download the free I am Norm Educational Guide HERE and learn how to win a free HD video camera. More information and resources for Inclusive Schools Week at inclusiveschools.org.

Finding the Resources and Programs You Need

Finding the Resources and Programs You Need
When: November 29, 2010
Time: 2-3 p.m. EST

Join NCLD’s Parent Leader, Nancy Ventrudo, as she answers your questions and gives her insider advice. Whether you’re a parent who is raising a child with LD or an adult with LD who needs additional support, where do you begin to look for the information sources or services you need?

Nancy will help you learn how to:
• Make the most of your (free!) Parent Training and Information Center
• Find other information sources and services in your area
• Locate free or low-cost resources
• Determine whether a resource or service is trustworthy

Joining a Parent Talk is as easy as 1-2-3!
Parent Talks are text-based discussions, so all you'll need is Internet access to participate. You can submit your question in advance of the Talk, or during the scheduled event. In either case, participating is easy!

Click here to submit your question -- it's the same page you'll visit on the 29th to watch the talk unfold!

How is life different for adults living with developmental disabilities?

How is life different for families and the millions of adults living with a developmental disability in this country? That's what Easter Seals wanted to find out. Thanks to the generous support of MassMutual Financial Group, we worked with Harris Interactive to conduct our Living with Disabilities Study.

In every measure of comparison, parents of adult children with disabilities had significantly higher levels of concern for their children than parents of adult children without disabilities -- yet services and support for these families and adults living with disability are few and far between.

The study results paint a startling picture of these families’ life-long challenges surrounding everyday life and future concerns for parents of adult children with disabilities and adults with disabilities. Many parents worry their adult children’s basic needs for employment, housing, transportation, social interactions, recreation, healthcare and financial security will not be met:

• Only 11% of parents of adult children with disabilities report their child is employed full time.

• Just 6 in 10 parents of adult children with a disability rate their child’s quality of life as excellent or good (61%), compared to 8 in 10 parents of adults without a disability (82%).

• Huge gaps exist in parents of adults with disabilities’ assessment of their child’s ability to manage their own finances (34% vs. 82% parents of adults without disabilities) and have the life skills necessary to live independently (30% vs. 83% parents of adults without disabilities).

• Nearly 7 in 10 adults with disabilities (69%) live with their parent(s) or guardian; only 17% live independently -- compared to more than half of adult children without disabilities (51%).

Easter Seals will use these findings to raise awareness of and advocate for the life-long services families desperately need -- working to lessen these disparities and bridge the gap for the many people living with developmental disabilities.
A full version of the study is available here. Watch the press event video and hear from Joe Mantegna, from the popular TV show Criminal Minds and the father of an adult daughter with autism, talk about what autism means to his family.

Next SIBShop Enid is THIS Saturday at 10 a.m.

The next Sibshop Enid is coming up this Saturday November 13th from 10 am to 1 pm, with FREE pizza provided by Papa Johns. This is a great opportunity for your typical kiddos to connect to other kids who have a sibling with special needs & find support among their peers. Plus they offer childcare for your child with special needs & time for you to network with other parents or just have a breather. It's win-win all around & hope lots of families will take advantage of this great program. To learn more or register for Sat.'s session, contact Michelle Sauncy at Choice Institute at (580)-234-8880.

Swim program for students with ASD

The YMCA Swim Program for Children with ASD is looking for new students!

Here's how the program works:

1. Interested parents contact the Enid YMCA at 580-237-4645 and set up an appointment with Kathi Black or Kim Haley. This is a great time for parents to arrange to observe a current class.

2. Together they determine the individual needs of the child (what supports the child will need, how their autism is presenting itself and how that impacts their ability to enjoy the water, and what goals the family has for their child & swimming).

3. The family selects a class time (Classes are 30 minutes long and are scheduled on Tuesday & Thursday evenings at 5:45; 6:15; 6:45; and 7:15 p.m.)

Students can be any age and have any type of autism spectrum disorder. The program is open to both YMCA members and non-members. Cost for 8 lessons is $35 for YMCA members and $50 for non-members.

Parents who would like to talk with a family already in the swim program are welcome to contact Theresa Sharp at 977-7479.

It is a wonderful asset to our community to have swim instructors specifically trained to assist students with autism spectrum disorders. Please encourage families interested in swimming to take advantage of this program!

A "must see" video

Being an Unperson
A VERY Powerful Video by a Self-Advocate
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4c5_3wqZ3Lk

A "must-see" video for anyone who teaches, supports or works with children or adults with disabilities.Thought provoking and insightful, this video provides a perspective from people with a disabilities, especially those that are labeled "non-verbal". It raises awareness of how people with disabilities are treated and will make others think twice about the impact of their words and actions. It is a good reminder to treat all people with respect and to always presume competence.

Changes at GovBenefits.gov

GovBenefits.gov is now Benefits.gov. Benefits.gov continues to provide you with up-to-date information and easy, online access to government benefit and assistance programs. This commitment to you is why we have redesigned our entire site – to continue to put your feedback to work and give you the best tools available to find the government programs that may be right for you and your family.

Although we have a new name and look, we continue to partner with 17 Federal agencies to ensure that you receive the latest information on specific programs of interest. We invite you to explore our new site, www.benefits.gov, and get to know some of the great features that we've added to make it easier and faster to find the programs that may be right for you or someone you know.

Special Education Advocacy Training at UCO

SPECIAL EDUCATION LAW AND ADVOCACY TRAINING
December 8, 2010

Sponsored by _The Oklahoma Disability Law Center and it's FREE* for
parents, family members, and individuals who work with children with
disabilities and are residents of Oklahoma.

Speaker: Pete Wright

Location: University of Central Oklahoma
Constitution Hall
100 N University Drive
Edmond, Oklahoma 73034

Program Description: One-day special education law and advocacy programs focus on four areas:
· special education law, rights and responsibilities
· tests and measurements to measure progress & regression
· SMART IEPs
· introduction to tactics & strategies for effective advocacy

Wrightslaw programs are designed to meet the needs of parents, educators, health care providers, advocates and attorneys who represent children with disabilities regarding special education. The program is not disability specific.

Time: 8:30-4:30

Registration is FREE to parents, family members, and individuals who
work with children with disabilities and are residents of Oklahoma. Out of
state registrants are welcome, but will be charged for the cost of the books
($65).

Registrants will receive three books: Wrightslaw: Special Education Law,
2nd Edition, Wrightslaw: From Emotions to Advocacy, 2nd Edition, and Wrightslaw: All About IEP's. (All excellent resources!)

Click here to download the registration form.

Credits: CLE (continuing legal education) credits are pending. LPC's
(licensed professional counselors) credits will be available. Certificate of
attendence will be available.

October is National Down Syndrome Awareness Month

Celebrate National Down Syndrome Awareness Month by checking out the "My Great Story" campaign on the National Down Syndrome website. Read and share inspiring stories from some of the 400,000 Americans living with Down Syndrome.

October is National Spina Bifida Awareness Month

Learn more about living with spina bifida through fact sheets, Frequently asked questions, and the National Resource Center offered at the Spina Bifida Association website.

Researchers Say Children With ADHD Should Also Be Checked for Reading Disabilities

A new study has found that 51% of boys with ADHD had reading problems, as did 46.7% of girls with ADHD. By contrast, just 14.5% of boys and 7.7% of girls without ADHD had problems with reading. The research highlights how important it is for students diagnosed with ADHD to also be checked for reading disabilites.

Click here to read more about the study on WebMD

The latest technology to assist individuals with severe hearing loss

Are you or someone you love dealing with severe hearing loss? A growing number of technologies and assistive devices are available to help you stay connected and communicate effectively. Learn about the latest options in this feature article from WedMD.

New support group in OKC

NEW support group in OKC (begins September 13): Gifted Families

This group offers support, encouragement, and resources for families dealing with children with developmental delays and/or special needs. Meets the first Monday of every month unless otherwise noted at 6:00pm in room 232 at Crossings Community Church. [14600 N. Portland, Oklahoma City OK 73134, 405/755-2227]

There will be childcare provided for 0-3 years. But, if caregivers have older children, Crossings will attempt to accommodate those as well. You will need to pre-register your child so the childcare staff will know how many workers to provide. They can pre-register by contacting Shiela at 405-302-1293 or via email at scahlik@crossingsokc.org

For more information contact:
Andrew Porter at aporter@heritagehall.com

Autism training in Enid for parents

The Oklahoma Autism Network will be presenting Everyday Intervention, on Tuesday, September 21, 2010,in Enid, Oklahoma. This training is designed for families and professionals. Research has shown that children with Autism Spectrum Disorders benefit from repeated opportunities to practice new skills across a variety of settings. In this training, we will discuss how families can use everyday routines to maximize their child's opportunities for learning.

Our training brochure, with a registration form is available on the OAN website. Please fill out and fax the registration form to us, or email us the complete information requested on the form.

Specific logistical information will be sent a few days prior to the training to those who have registered to attend the training.

Contact OAN if you have any questions or need additional information.

Oklahoma Autism Network
Lee Mitchener Tolbert Center for
Developmental Disabilities
Department of Rehabilitation Services
College of Allied Health
University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center
1200 North Stonewall, OKC, OK 73117
Phone: (405) 271-2131, Ext. 46807;
Fax (405) 271-4057

Learn to use your iPad with Augmentative Communication software

United Cerebral Palsy of Oklahoma now has an iPad with augmentative communication software available for in-office demonstration by appointment. There are 2 types of augmentative communication software currently in use. One is called Speak It which is a very basic, text to speech application. The other is called Proloquo2go which offers icons and/or text to speech.

If you would like to schedule an appointment, please call 405/759-3562 or
1-800-827-2289.

Parent Talk on August 17th - Demystifying Learning Disabilities

Parents of children with learning disabilities (LD) and children and adults with LD still face huge misunderstanding about what learning disabilities are…and what they’re not. When you hear an uneducated remark from a neighbor, colleague, coach, relative, or even from someone at the grocery store, how do you deal with it?

Join NCLD's Parent Leader, Marcie Lipsett, duing this Parent Talk as she discusses:
• Explaining LD in order to reduce stigma
• Dealing with people who misunderstand what a learning disability is
• Helping a child respond to uneducated (and hurtful) remarks
• Dealing with family members who simply don't get it
• Responding to someone who thinks that LD = autism, AD/HD, or mental retardation

Join our Next Parent Talk:
Demystifying Learning Disabilities —
Educating Yourself and Others

August 17, 2010
1-2 p.m. ET.

Parent Talks are text-based discussions, all you'll need is Internet access to participate. You can submit your question in advance of the Talk, or during the scheduled event. In either case, participating is as easy as 1-2-3!

Click here to have the Talk expert answer YOUR question

Brain scan could diagnose autism in 15 minutes

Courtesy of Autism Today ....

"As scientists develop a brain scan which could diagnose autism in 15 minutes, Chris Goodchild, who has Asperger's syndrome, tells Channel 4 News the importance of being quickly diagnosed.

The research, by scientists at the Institute of Psychiatry, King's College London and funded by the Medical Research Council, could lead to a simple, biological test for autism, and a clear diagnostic process, for the first time ever"

Click here to read the entire article

Check out eFamily TV

What is an Exceptional Family?
From the New Oxford American English Dictionary:

adjective
• unusually good; outstanding
• (of a child) mentally or physically disabled so as to require special schooling : helping parents of exceptional children.

We at eFamilyTV realize raising a child with special needs takes an extra amount of care as well as stress. Doctor appointments, therapies, treatments, surgeries, g-tubes, wheelchairs, communication devices – the family unit as a whole goes through extraordinary circumstances in comparison to other “typical” families. It is for this reason we call these families “Exceptional” as it defines the unusually good and outstanding role they play in the lives of their children.

Exceptional Family TV is about, for and to serve YOU. We promise to deliver engaging weekly episodes specifically designed for exceptional families.

This is your online, home destination. eFamilyTV focuses on parents/families/caregivers raising children with special needs (ages 0-21), with the future goal of covering topics pertaining to parents/caregivers for those in the adult age beyond 21-years of age.

http://www.exceptionalfamilytv.com/about

ODDC Family Member Survey...Make Your Voice Heard

The Oklahoma Developmental Disabilities Council is providing families with the opportunity to offer input into the council’s state planning through a survey. The survey will be conducted from July 15 through August 15, 2010.

Please encourage as many family members as you know to participate in taking the survey. Beginning July 15, 2010 go to www.okddc.ok.gov and click to take the planning survey online from your home, office or nearest public library. You can also call the council at 800.836.4470 to take the survey by phone.

Make Your Voice Heard
Oklahoma Developmental Disabilities Council
2010 State Plan Survey
July 15-August 15, 2010

The survey only contains 10 questions.
No one will contact you to participate in this survey. It is up to you if you want to take part.

The Council looks forward to hearing your opinions. For more information you may contact the council at 800.836.4470.

The Affordable Care Act's New Patient's Bill of Rights

Check out this Fact sheet on the new Patient's Bill of Rights under the Affordable Care Act, which will help children (and eventually all Americans) with pre-existing conditions gain health care coverage and keep it, protect all Americans' choice of doctors and end lifetime limits on the care consumers may receive.

HHS Launches New Consumer Focused Health Care Website

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services unveiled an innovative new on-line tool that will help consumers take control of their health care by connecting them to new information and resources that will help them access quality, affordable health care coverage.... (I went to the site and tried out scenarios of different kinds and it is a place to start for families who may be wondering what is out there for them. It is easy, quick, good general information.)

Check it out at: http://www.healthcare.gov/

Check out eFamily TV

At eFamilyTV they realize raising a child with special needs takes an extra amount of care as well as stress. Doctor appointments, therapies, treatments, surgeries, g-tubes, wheelchairs, communication devices – the family unit as a whole goes through extraordinary circumstances in comparison to other “typical” families. It is for this reason we call these families “Exceptional” as it defines the unusually good and outstanding role they play in the lives of their children.

Exceptional Family TV is about, for and to serve YOU. They promise to deliver engaging weekly episodes specifically designed for exceptional families.

Their online, home destination. eFamilyTV focuses on parents/families/caregivers raising children with special needs (ages 0-21), with the future goal of covering topics pertaining to parents/caregivers for those in the adult age beyond 21-years of age.

Check it out at:
http://www.efamilytv.com/

New Tech for Guest with Disabilities at Disney parks

Handheld Device to Offer Detailed Descriptions to Guest with Disabilities

A first-of-its-kind technology will change the way some guests with disabilities experience Disney parks. Assistive Technology Device to provide detailed descriptions of outdoor areas for visually impaired guests. Using an interactive audio menu, guests can choose the type of information they’d like to receive, from architectural elements to the location of the nearest restroom. It works using wireless technology to pinpoint its location and take pre-programmed actions. Best of all, it fits in the palm of your hand.

Disney has already patented and licensed the technology for the handheld device, which could serve a wide variety of retail, commercial and industrial applications. And industry insiders and techies are already taking notice. The National Society of Professional Engineers just lauded the device as the new product of the year. The Handheld Assistive Technology Device will be available starting June 27 for guests at Walt Disney World Resort and in 2011 in Disneyland Resort, for no additional cost.

Click here for more info from Disney

Successful transition planning with Assistive Technology

As a student leaves high school, continued support and funding of his AT becomes dependent on adult or community service agencies. Who will identify those resources and facilitate the transition process? Who will provide the necessary training to integrate the technology in the workplace and/or community? The people involved in answering these questions are critical to the success of the transition, and
should be present at your transitionn planning meetings.

If you are unsure about how to do a successful transition plan for your child or how to do own that successfully incorporates technology, download the Family Information Guide to Assistive Technology and Transition Planning from the Family Center on Technology & Disability.

Helping tramatized children heal - free training May 7th

Canadian County Coalition for Children & Families Offers FREE Training

How science and evidence are used to help children heal.
Presented by Joe Benamati, Ed.D

Friday, May 7, 2010
9:00 AM until 4:30 PM
Redlands Community College Conference Center
1300 S. Country Club Road, El Reno, OK.
Lunch on your own.

Dr. Benamati will present a holistic approach to helping children deal with the negative effects of traumatic life experiences. He is the author of START (Systematic Training to Assist in the Recovery from Trauma) and former center director of the Parsons Child and Family Center’s National Child Traumatic Stress Network program. Dr. Benamati was trained as a medic during Vietnam and served in a military hospital treating active duty personnel suffering from PTSD. He has worked for 35 years in children’s mental health and is a consultant on alternative education. He is currently a faculty member for the Sanctuary Institute and coordinator of the NYS DJJOY/ Sanctuary initiative.

Please RSVP by calling 262-0202 before Wednesday, May 5, 2010.

Family member survey - deadline May 21, 2010

STARS has developed a needs survey specifically for family members. Your completion of the survey will help the STARS program continue to offer courses relevant to the needs of families.

Please take a moment to fill out the survey and submit it by May 21, 2010.

Link to the STARS Family Training Needs Survey 2011 -
click here: STARS Family Survey

If you need a paper copy of the survey, please contact Judith Grove at STARS@ouhsc.edu or by calling (405) 271-1836. We look forward to receiving your feedback.

Bully Free Program Train-the-Trainers in June

Many Oklahoma schools use the Bully Free program and Dr. Allan Beane is coming back to Oklahoma in June, for a training of trainers. There is a fee and contact info below.

He will be in Oklahoma City on June 2-4. 2010. The key to establishing an ongoing and effective anti-bullying program in a cost-effective manner is for each school or school system to have its own trainers and consultants or to have such individuals near their location.

The Bully Free Program (Preschool through High School) is the most comprehensive program available. It reduces bullying, reduces suspensions, reduces behavior problems, reduces expulsions, increases school attendance, increases end of grade test scores, and much more.

Who should attend?
School system employees who have a passion to prevent bullying and who can provide quality training may attend. The training is appropriate for all grade levels. Some districts may prefer to send more than one person (i.e., one person from each school, etc.).

What do trainers receive through the training?
The workshop participants will receive three days of intense training in the implementation of the Bully Free Program, a training manual (Bullying Prevention for Schools - A Step-by-Step Guide to Implementing a Successful Anti-Bullying Program by Allan L. Beane, Ph.D.), Bully Free Program PowerPoint training presentations and handouts to facilitate their training efforts, access to over one-hundred Microsoft Word files on the website (www.bullyfree.com), a variety of follow-up services, and other free resources from the Bully Free Program to jump start their efforts.

Who will provide the training?
Dr. Allan Beane is an internationally recognized expert, author and speaker on bullying. He is the founder and President of Bully Free Systems, LLC and developer of The Bully Free Program that has been adopted by schools and districts around the United States. The Oklahoma Department of Education is currently piloting the Bully Free Program at eleven school sites. His son was bullied in seventh grade and high
school. He died ten years ago. His son's life inspired him to write his first book, The Bully Free Classroom. This book is a best seller and is in ten languages. He is the author of six published anti-bullying books and several other materials and resources. Dr. Beane has over thirty-seven years of experience in education and has served as an expert and consultant in five criminal cases and six lawsuits involving bullying. He and materials from The Bully Free Program have been featured in USA Today, USA Weekend, Time for Kids, and Newsweek for Teens, and many other national magazines and journals. He has also made numerous television appearances (i.e., Fox News, CNN Headline News - The Nancy Grace Show, etc.). Visit his website at www.bullyfree.com.

Sampling of Workshop Topics:
=> Nature of Bullying
=> Warning Signs
=> Rationale for Preventing and Stopping Bullying
=> Bully Free Program Philosophy
=> Examination of Program Materials and Resources
=> Prevention and Intervention Strategies (Administrative and Classroom)
=> Empowering Bystanders
=> Helping Victims
=> Changing Bullies
=> Steps to Implementing a Program
=> Policies and Procedures
=> Investigating Rumors of Bullying
=> Responding to Bullying
=> Discipline Rubrics (Elementary, Middle School)
=> Developing Intervention Plans
=> Identifying and Providing Quality Supervision of High-risk Areas
=> Adding Structure to High-Risk Areas
=> Establishing Behavioral Expectations
=> Educating Parents and the Community
=> Chairing a Bully Free Program Team/Committee
=> Assessing the Effectiveness of the Program
=> Accessing and Utilizing Training Resources

Date, Time, and Daily Schedule:
Three-day training, June 2-4, 2010 - 8:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
8:30 a.m. - 9:00 a.m. Sign-in
9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Training
12:00 p.m. -1:00 p.m. Lunch on your own
1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. Training

Registration Deadline: May 21, 2009

For more information, go to www.bullyfree.com or contact abeane@bullyfree.com or call (270) 227-0431.

Great newsletters for parents raising children with special needs

Here is a link to a website about special needs advocacy, etc. They have a great email newsletter you can sign up for with info on IEPS and all kinds of useful info.
http://www.wrightslaw.com/

Here is a link to another website with an email newsletter for children with special needs: The National Dissemination Center for Children with Disabilities (NICHCY) http://www.nichcy.org/Pages/Home.aspx

Music Event in Stillwater - Performers on the Rise

Performers on the Rise ..... special event to benefit Mya Gonzales Foundation and Rise School

The Oklahoma Music Therapists Association, Oklahoma State University Department of Music, the Mya Gonzales Foundation and OSU Greek Life will present Performers on the Rise at 2:30 p.m. Sunday, April 11 in the Seretean Center for Performing Arts on the OSU Campus. Proceeds from the benefit concert will go to the Mya Gonzales Foundation which provides support for the Rise School which is part of the Human Development and Family Science Department in the College of Human Environmental Sciences.

The concert will feature a variety of performers including an internationally known New York City tenor, performers from Triple C Music Therapy, OSU music department vocalists, orchestra and drum line, the Oklahoma All-State Honor Choir, and dancers from the New York City Ballet and Stillwater’s Encore Dance Studio.

Stillwater music therapist Robbin Buford who is directing the production says the concert will incorporate musicians with disabilities as well as typically developing and professional musicians ranging from young children to adults.

A reception will be held in the Conoco-Phillips OSU Alumni Center immediately following the concert. A silent auction, music therapy exhibits, and painting demonstrations by children with autism are also planned for the event.

“We are very excited to be able to showcase the impact music therapy can have on individuals with special needs,” Buford said. “Concert guests will be able to experience collaboration between performers with disabilities, professional musicians, choreographers and theater directors in a public performance of the highest production standards.”

Rise School Director Rachel Stallings has seen the benefits music therapy has on children with disabilities.

“Music reaches students in ways other methods of learning can’t,” Stallings said. “They become more expressive and involved during the music therapy sessions. Their progress is accelerated because of the music therapy.”

Mya Gonzales Foundation Chair Scott Jones said Performers on the Rise will not only be entertaining but educational as well.

“The Mya Gonzales Foundation supports children with special needs and their families. Performers on the Rise will showcase the amazing accomplishments of these special children,” Jones said. “The proceeds from the concert, will allow the foundation to continue its financial support to the families and the Rise School for music and other special therapies.”

Tickets range in price from $55-$125 and can be purchased by calling (405)612-3022, 202-642-3022 or by visiting the Performers on the Rise website.

Are you potty training? Here's help!

How to toilet train... a child with disabilities?

Here's one article: http://pediatrics.about.com/cs/parentingadvice/a/sp_needs_potty.htm

And here's another: http://www.dummies.com/how-to/content/potty-training-children-with-disabilities.html

Want something more specific?
• tips for a child with autism
• tips for a child with cerebral palsy
• tips for a child with developmental disabilities
• tips for a child with developmental disabilities
• tips for a child with OCD

Young Children with Cerebral Palsy, Arthrogryposis or Spinal Muscular Atrophy

PARTICIPANTS NEEDED

Young Children with Cerebral Palsy, Arthrogryposis or Spinal Muscular Atrophy

Did you know that children with severe cerebral palsy, arthrogryposis, spinal muscular atrophy and other disorders whose limited mobility prevents them from exploring their environment may be at risk for delays in how they learn, communicate, socialize and cope?

We are doing a research study with young children with such conditions. The study will explore the effects of battery-operated wheelchairs on the development and functional skills of children when compared to similar children who do not receive the intervention.

Requirements: Participants must be 14- to 30-months of age, must be unable to walk, must have adequate vision and hearing, and must have the ability to learn to use a battery-operated wheelchair.

Participation is voluntary. For more information, please call Amanda Porter at 405-271-2131 ext 46813 or E-mail at Amanda-Porter@ouhsc.edu for further details!

All calls and E-mails are confidential. The University of Oklahoma is an Equal Opportunity Employer

Calling all fathers who have a child or children with special health care needs!

Calling all fathers who have a child or children with special health care needs!

The Oklahoma Dept of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services/Oklahoma Systems of Care is considering seeking funding for a "fatherhood initiative" in Oklahoma. I have developed a short survey to get more information from fathers and to assist our team in accessing the needed funding. Please take a moment to fill out the survey if you are a father who has a child or children with special health care needs, physical and/or mental.

If you are not a father who has a child with special health care needs, please help spread the work and forward this message so that we can get input from as many Oklahoma fathers as possible.

We truly appreciate you taking the time to help us! Please feel free to contact me directly with questions or comments regarding this survey.

CLICK LINK BELOW TO TAKE SURVEY:
http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/fatherhood2010

Traci Castles
Communication & Events Specialist
ODMHSAS, Children, Youth and Family Services
Oklahoma Systems of Care
PO Box 53277
Oklahoma City, OK 73152-3277
(405) 522-8019

Morgan's Wonderland - a theme park designed for kids with special needs

There is a new theme park opening in San Antonio for kids with disabilities. In fact it was designed specifically for children with cognitive and physical disabilities.

. Opens March 3, 2010 - Grand Opening held on April 10, 2010
. Admission for children with special needs is free
. All rides are accessible
. Controlled entry and exit - Features RFID locator wristbands and touch
screen display monitors so parents and caregivers can keep track of family
and friends

Don't miss the Interactive Map that tells you about all the cool park features. And the video about the park developer (father to Morgan). Check it out at:
http://www.morganswonderland.com/

Click here for the park brochure in PDF

Videos of Successful Transition

Videos of interest On YouTube

World of Transition
Create by the Disability Rights Network of Pennsylvania. The video highlights the stories of four youth with disabilities who have successfully transitioned from high school to either employment or Post-Secondary education.

Through the Same Door
PART 1: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fWnCVd2cBpA
PART 2: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9tjtkcV4n2k
PART 3: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v_0ayOc7EZA
Learn about Micah’s experiences in college, view this award winning video on college life. An inspiring film that documents the new movement of fully inclusive education by exploring Micah’s desire for a life without boundaries. As a high school student, Micah wanted the college experience and he got it. See how it’s done, learn how it works, and witness how Micah’s journey challenges us all to reexamine what we believe possible.

10 Days and Counting

It seems like it's been the season for surveys lately. Everywhere we turn we are encouraged to participate ----- in the census, in school bond votes, in surveys and needs assessments. It can feel like just one more thing to do, but the truth is....... it does matter if you participate.

Are there other people doing your job or raising kids in your community? Yes. Do they know and understand the situations you faced yesterday, last week or last month? No.

You have a unique window on your part of the world. No one stands in your shoes and experiences exactly what you experience. The "service system" frequently experiences budget cuts because others simply don't understand what you live and breathe every day. That is the part of the equation you can change!

Your insights aren't just nice to know they are vital pieces of the puzzle and we can't move forward without them. Please invest just 10 minutes to share what only you know --- tell us where the system is broken, hard to use, or where pieces are missing.

Click here to complete our survey online

If you have completed our survey, please encourage others to give their input also.

Thank you for helping us improve support for children, youth & families in our community!

Lisa Simmons and the rest of the Sooner SUCCESS family

Inclusive Prepareness Center

Be prepared in case of an emergency. Formerly the Center for Disability and Special Needs Preparedness, this organization has family readiness materials, online planning and training, and Spanish language materials on planning for individuals with disabilities in the event of an emergency or disaster.

Click here to visit the Inclusive Prepareness Center

Want more? Here are 15 links to resources for people with disabilities, families, seniors and more.

Spanish Resources for parents of young children

The Get Ready to Read! web site recently launched a new section to assist Spanish-speaking parents in helping their children build skills before kindergarten. In addition, there are also resources designed to help parents and families talk with teachers and day care providers about questions they have about their child's development.

Conéctese a los nuevos recursos para padres que hablan español! El sitio de Internet de Prepárate a Leer! ha introducido recientemente una nueva sección para ayudar a los padres que hablan español a ayudar a sus hijos a desarrollar destrezas antes de entrar al jardín de infantes. Además, hay también recursos designados a ayudar a los padres y familias a conversar con los maestros y proveedores de cuidado infantil sobre sus preguntas relacionadas con el desarrollo de su hijo.

www.GetReadytoRead.org/SpanishResources

Don't miss the Govenor's Conference on Developmental Disabilities

Name: 2010 Governor's Conference on Developmental Disabilities

Start Date: March 8, 2010
End Date: March 9, 2010

Start Time: 8 a.m.
End Time: 5 p.m.

Description: 2010 Governor's Conference on Developmental Disabilities
Keeping the Dream Alive

Location: Embassy Suites Hotel and Conference Center
2501 Conference Drive
Norman, OK 73069

Contact Information: Gail Russell
(405) 521-6254
Gail.Russell@okdhs.org

More info & online registration available at:
http://register.oucpm.org/ddsd2010gov/

Registration Fee: $50
Registration Deadline: Feb. 22, 2010

Study Shows Oxytocin May Improve Social Skills for Some People With Autism

A new study shows people with high-functioning autism disorders, such as Asperger's syndrome, who were treated with oxytocin responded more strongly to others and displayed more appropriate social behaviors. Read more about the study and it's results at WebMD

Would you like to become an advocate for children with special needs?

Many people don't realize there is currently no certification process for advocates. But there is good training available. And you do need to understand the process and the regulations to be an effective advocate.

Wrightslaw offers some of the best training around on this topic. Recently they devoted an entire issue of their newsletter to advocate training. You can check it out here.

In Oklahoma another option is to complete the training offered by the Oklahoma Parents Center and become a Community IEP Partner. Click here to learn more about this program at the OPC website.

Rick Lavoie is coming to OKC - April 6, 2010

Attention teachers, parents, tutors and others interested in motivating & helping those who struggle to learn!

World-renowned Learning Disabilities expert, Rick Lavoie, will speak in Oklahoma City on April 6th, 2010.

Payne Education Center will host the Lavoie seminar at:
Crossings Community Center
2208 W. Hefner Road, OKC
Time: 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.

Rick authored the book, It's So Much Work to Be Your Friend.

His newest book and PBS DVD on student motivation, The Motivation Breakthrough: Secrets to Turning On the Tuned-Out Child (Book and DVD Bundle), were released in 2007 and were featured in USA Today.

After viewing Rick’s videos, former First Lady Barbara Bush stated,

"You really wowed us! I only wish that every parent and teacher in the United States today could also see your program."

Ginny Little, Retired Head of School, Oak Hall Episcopal School, Ardmore, OK, said,

“I am privileged to have enjoyed seven of Rick Lavoie’s presentations, and each time I was deeply rejuvenated about teaching children. He shares his wonderful philosophies and experiences in a manner easily understood, and one comes away with ideas that can be easily implemented. Rick Lavoie is highly motivating, and attending his workshop is the perfect solution to staff development!”

Admission to the afternoon seminar is $25 per person and we will be handing out Professional Development forms for the 3 hours of attendance. (If you are a member of ALTA, they have approved 3 hours for CEU credits.)

Space is limited, so sign up early to experience Rick Lavoie’s important message on behalf of children and adolescents with special needs. The Curriculum Vitae on Mr. Lavoie, if needed for verification of continuing education units, is available at www.ricklavoie.com.

Seats can be reserved by calling Payne Education Center at 405/755-4205 or by emailing to mari@PayneEducationCenter.org

Discussion list for Military Families in OK

This is a new discussion group for military families in Oklahoma who have children on the autism spectrum to share resources, doctors, and therapies that are covered by Tricare, ECHO, etc. Check it out at:
http://health.groups.yahoo.com/group/militaryASDinOK/

Research study on ADHD and dyslexia

DOES YOUR CHILD HAVE ADHD AND / OR A LEARNING DISABILITY IN READING (DYSLEXIA)?

Your child may be eligible to take part in a research study.
1. ADHD is a condition in which a child is easily distracted.
2. It is hard for the child to pay attention or wait for his or her turn.
3. It is tough for the child to sit without fidgeting and squirming, or jumping up to do something else.
4. Children with ADHD act first and think later.
5. Children with reading disabilities (dyslexia) have persistent problems with reading.

If this sounds like your child, take this opportunity to learn more about your child’s behavior and this study. A pharmaceutical company is studying an investigational medication that may help girls and boys who experience these symptoms. If your boy or girl is between the ages of 10 and 16 and has ADHD and / or a reading disability contact:
CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL OF OKLAHOMA
CHILD STUDY CENTER

Brenda Schlinke (e-mail: brenda-schlinke@ouhsc.edu)
Lora Tusing (e-mail: lora-tusing@ouhsc.edu)

AT
405-271-5700 EXT. #45167

2010 Couple Conference: Married with Special Needs Children

Theme: A couples guide to keeping connected

Start Time: Friday, March 5, 2010 at 6:00pm
End Time: Saturday, March 6, 2010 at 4:00pm
Location: Embassy Suites Hotel & conference Center
Street: 2501 Conference Drive
City/Town: Norman, OK

Cost is $40 per coupld and you must pre-register to attend. Childcare WILL NOT be provided for this conference, however, if eligible, respite money will be available to help with childcare costs. For information about scholarships and respite care money please contact: Traci Henry at conferenceinfo@dsaco.org or (405)428-0900

Dr. Laura Marshak and Ms. Fran Prezant, the authors of “Married with Special-Needs Children”, are combining their years of experience working with disability and family issues in order to conduct a workshop developed specifically for couples raising children with special needs. Although the main focus is strengthening couples’ relationships, the workshop will address other aspects of coping with issues of family life that also greatly impact couples. Participants will leave the workshop with many new ideas and a range of practical strategies to use at home to create marital change without getting overwhelmed.

Starting your Caregiver Notebook

A new year has started and with it comes a great opportunity to get organized. Download the helpful forms in our Caregiver Notebook and organize your child's vital information including notes from doctor visits, quick references for babysitters, emergency contacts, and medication schedules.

To find out more, visit:
http://www.mychildwithoutlimits.org/?page=helpful-forms

What Parents Must Know About Reading Disabilities: A Blog for Parents

Because schools, reading disabilities, and education laws are complex, most parents of children with reading disabilities feel overwhelmed and intimidated. They want to help their children, but don’t know how. A new blog for parents, Learning & Reading Disabilities, shows parents (and teachers) how to improve the odds that their children can succeed in reading.

Learning & Reading Disabilities answers critical questions that haunt parents.

These include:
1. Does my child have a reading disability or other learning disability?
2. What reading program is best for my child?
3. How can I monitor my child’s progress?
4. What can I do if my child’s progress is poor?
5. How can I help my child at home?
6. Should I let the school retain my child?
7. Should my child be in a regular or special education class?
8. What can the school do to motivate my child?
9. How can I prepare for Individualized Education Program (IEP) meetings?
and many more

Strategies for Successful Medical and Dental Visits

The New York State Developmental Disabilities Planning Council has these ideas for caregivers in checklist form to help make medical and dental visits easier for individuals with disabilities. It includes things like asking for a "get acquainted" visit.

Take a look at the checklist.

Sensory Friendly Film

Have you heard about AMC Theaters Sensory Friendly Film Program? This is a wonderful opportunity for families who have a member who is not able to go to movies because of noise, crowds, or any other reason.

AMC Theaters offer a current movie every month where it is okay to bring in special snacks, sing, shout or move around during the movie, with some lights on, and the volume on the movie turned down.

Theaters participating in Oklahoma include:
AMC Crossroads 16
1211 E I-240 Service Road, Oklahoma City, OK 73149

AMC Quaill Springs 24
2501 W Memorial Rd -Ste E, Oklahoma City, OK 73134

Find out more at Autism-society.org.

Sooner SUCCESS Community Needs Assessment

It's a brand new year and it's time to let your voice be heard!

No one knows better what services are missing or need to be expanded in your community than YOU. Does your town need more daycares that service children with special needs? Do you have to travel long distances to get the kind of medical care or therapy that will help your child make progress? Do your local service providers speak your primary language or offer an intrepreter to ensure you understand their care instructions? Does your child have access and the kind of adaptive equipment they need to play on the playground or with the local soccer team?

Tell us what your community needs by participating in our 2010 Community Needs Survey. You can participate online by clicking here or you can request a paper copy of the survey to complete & return by mail by contacting Lisa at 603-1580. All Oklahoma residents who complete the survey and include their contact information will be entered in a random drawing for a $50 Visa gift card.

Family Caregivers Alliance: Assistive Technology (AT)

This website has all kinds of information on AT, including how and where to find independent living aids and adaptive equipment, home and vehicle modifications, possible funding sources, and more. It's definitely worth a look.
Visit the page on Caregiver.org.

Assistive Technology Glossary
Could you use a little help with all the different terms for assistive technology? The Family Center on Technology and Disability (FCTD) has what you are looking for - get that refresher course here.

Student Rights & Responsibilities in Postsecondary Education

The mission of the U.S. Department of Education is to promote student achievement by encouraging educational excellence as well as equal access to educational opportunities. The Department of Education is involved in establishing federal financial aid policies, collecting data on America’s schools, and prohibiting discrimination.

The Office for Civil Rights (an arm of the Department of Education)publishes a pamphlet, called Students with Disabilities Preparing for Postsecondary Education: Know Your Rights and Responsibilities, that explains the rights and responsibilities of students with disabilities as they prepare to continue their education past high school.

The website where this pamphlet is available also contains a number of questions and answers that a student in your community may be interested in as they get ready to make the transition to post-secondary education.