PINLINE
The e-newsletter for Parent Information Network
October 2015
The Benefit of Support Groups
Support groups can assist parents by educating them on various topics and connecting them to local resources.  

Support groups also provide comfort to parents through sharing mutual experiences.  Many parents find our groups to be a safe haven and a judgement-free zone. You will see that you are not alone in your journey.

PIN offers parent support groups in various locations across the Southeast. Check the News and Events section of our website to find a support group near you. You can also contact PIN at 508-947-8779 or pin@bamsi.org.
Couples Support Group
Knowing how beneficial support groups can be, PIN is now considering starting a support group for couples. This would not be a therapeutic group, but an opportunity for couples to come together and share their experiences of raising a challenged child. The group would meet quarterly, starting later this year.

If you are interested in joining this group, please click here to complete a brief survey. Your feedback will help us to shape this group.
Parents' Corner
PIN Support Groups
  
Have you had the opportunity to attend a PIN Parent Support Group? Would you like to know what all the buzz is about? Here is what your peers have to say!

To find the PIN Parent Support Group in your area, visit the News & Events page on our website, www.pin.bamsi.org.

"PIN has been a lifesaver for me! Knowing that there is a support and other parents dealing with the same or similar issues gives me peace of mind." 
  
~ Brockton Parent

"I can speak with others who understand and it helps me to get through the day."

~ Cape Parent

"PIN has been there for me. PIN groups help me with the feeling of isolation and give me time with people who understand what I am going through. Who can be supportive to me, so I can deal with what I have to deal with."
  
~ Fall River Parent

"We can share our experiences, thoughts, suggestions and dreams with each other." 
  
"Really helpful in guidance of areas I'm unsure of. Also great for networking with other parents that get you."
  
~ New Bedford Parents

"Meeting other parents has been helpful and getting information before reacting to my child."

~ Plymouth Parent

"I don't know what I would do without the PIN network."

~ Taunton/Attleboro Parent 

"PIN has enabled me to connect with professionals and other parents which has given me greater confidence."
  
~ PTAY Parent
Education Tip of the Month
SEPAC
 
Support Groups for special education might look a little different than a traditional support group. Each school district is required by law to have a Special Education Parent Advisory Council, also know as SEPAC. 

A SEPAC must offer membership to all parents of students found eligible for special education in the district, as well as other interested parties. The SEPAC is authorized to provide advice to the district regarding special education programs and policies. SEPAC's offer meetings monthly, biweekly, or maybe even quarterly. It is a great place to meet with parents in your district to gain support around the special education process. 

Many SEPACS have websites, Facebook pages, and other online resources. Trainings are frequently provided on various topics, most of which are open to other SEPAC members. 

SEPACs can be a valuable support for families. Check your district SEPAC out today! If you are not sure how to locate the SEPAC for your school district, talk with your PIN Parent Coordinator. We are always here to help!
PTAY Corner
PTAY Support Groups
  
PTAY (Parents of Transitional Age Youth) offers a variety of support groups each month to meet the needs of the families we serve.

We offer a monthly Q & A group with a guest speaker, in addition to our monthly traditional support group. We also offer a monthly group for parents of high school students to discuss transition-related topics. For the Cape Cod area, we have an education and support group that meets in Hyannis.  

For schedules and more information, please check out PTAY News and Events page on our website. You may also contact Tresa Salters, PTAY Parent Coordinator, at 508-947-8779 ext 222 or ptaypin@bamsi.org
Fathers Support Group
Saturday, November 14
5:00pm - 7:00 pm

A monthly support group exclusively for fathers and other male caregivers. 

This month's topic: "Learn Ways to Observe When Your Child is Comfortable or Uncomfortable."  Click here to learn more about this unique support group.

Chris Bean, Group Facilitator, can be reached at  christopherbean@bamsi.org .
UPCOMING EVENT:
  
Current Trends in Substance Use: What Every Parent Needs To Know
Wednesday, November 4
6:30 pm - 8:30 pm

Heather Kennedy, Director of BAMSI's COPE Center, is a Master Trainer in Overdose Prevention and the parent of a teen. Heather will be providing a Narcan demonstration. She will also be joined by a guest speaker with lived experience. 

This is a PTAY event, but all PIN families are encouraged to attend. Click here for more information.

RSVP to Megan Howell, Administrative Assistant, at 508-947-8779 ext 210 or pin@bamsi.org
In This Issue
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Visit us online for upcoming events and a full list of helpful resources in your area!

The PIN office will be closed Thursday, November 26 and Friday, November 27, in celebration of Thanksgiving. 

The PIN office will be OPEN on Wednesday, November 11.
47 East Grove Street
Middleboro, MA 02346

508-947-8779 | FAX 508-947-8824