Family Connections Newsletter
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Parent Mentor
Eileen Hawkins
December, 2019
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KIDnections Group
Provides recreational programs such as cooking, arts and crafts, game playing, music and movement, and sports skills classes all geared for children and teens with autism or similar diagnoses. Classes set the stage for learning new skills including language, social skills, fine motor, and self care with support from trained professionals. Child-adult ratio is no more than 2:1.
KIDnections Group also provides cooking themed birthday parties which can be adapted to meet the needs of your child or teen. Please email the office for more information using the button below.
A
bout KIDnections Group:
The KIDnections Group is led by a team of three professionals well-versed in working with children on the Autism Spectrum and with related diagnoses. They are a speech language pathologist, behavioral therapist, and occupational therapist with extensive experience working with children in individual and group settings ranging in age from 3-23 years. Click on Staff Biographies below to learn more about the staff at
Classes:
Most of their classes, unless otherwise specified, are held at the North Olmsted recreation center, 26000 Lorain Road, North Olmsted 44070.
01/04/2020
9:30am to 11:30am
Questions, please call: (216) 262-8163
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The libraries below offer Adapted Story times where children with varying learning styles and abilities learn together in a safe, supportive environment where respect and appreciation for differences is encouraged. This story time, followed by a time for socialization, is designed for children who may not be successful in a typical story time experience. Content is geared toward ages 3 to 7 years, but all ages are welcome. Siblings may also attend but must register separately. Some libraries also offer additional special needs programming.
Akron-Summit County Public Library
Adapted Storytimes are offered at the Ellet Branch
.
You can register through the
CFK website
or by calling the branch directly.
Avon Lake Public Library
In addition to Adapted Storytimes, other special needs programming is offered. You can register through the
CFK website
or by calling the library directly.
Cuyahoga County Public Library
Adapted Story times are offered at multiple locations. The Parma-Snow branch also offers Sensory-Friendly Movies. You can either register through the
CFK website
or by calling each branch directly.
Euclid Public Library
Register for Adapted Storytimes on the
CFK website
or by calling the library directly.
Adapted Story times are offered at the Lakewood Public Library Main Library. Register on the Lorain Public Library System
In addition to Adapted Story times, other special needs programming is offered at the Avon and North Ridgeville
branches. You can register through the
CFK website
or by calling the library directly.
Rocky River Public Library
Register for Adapted Storytimes on the
CFK website
or by calling the library directly. Westlake Porter Public Library
In addition to Adapted Story times, other special needs programming is offered. You can register through the
CFK website
or by calling the library directly.
FREE
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Ohio Minds Matter
Mental illness, like physical illness, can happen to anyone
Has your child experienced any of the following?
- A big drop in school performance
- Poor grades even though they try hard
- Severe worry or anxiety (refuses to go to school, sleep, or join normal activities)
- Persistent nightmares
- Lots of physical complaints
- Hyperactive and/or cannot concentrate
- Extreme disobedience, anger, or aggression
- Lots of temper tantrums for no reason
- Threatens to harm self or others
- Big changes in sleep and/or eating habits
- Sexual acting out
- Severe sadness or hopelessness
- Severe mood swings
- Repeated use of alcohol and/or drugs n Repeated threats to run away
- Opposes authority or commits crimes n Strange thoughts, beliefs, feelings, or unusual behaviors
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Dec 29 2019 7:00 PM
Bay Lanes 27229 Wolf Rd. Bay Village, OH
Questions:
Phone: 1-440-570-5908
Español: 1-440-907-9130
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Holiday Party
Autism Society of Greater Cleveland
December 21, 2019 12-2 PM
Holiday Party at
The Independence Rec Center
6200 Elmwood Dr. (Pete Wisniewski's Pkwy., Independence, OH 44131
$5.00 per person
$25.00 Family Maximum
Join the ASGC for music, food, and a special visit from Santa! Gifts will be
provided for all registered children & teens. All are welcome to attend. Please RSVP, so Santa will know how many gifts to have.
Photos with Santa will be available, please bring your own camera.
Please RSVP by December 13 to 216-524-3262
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Comprehensive Treatments for
Intellectual & Developmental Disabilities (IDD)
The UH Department of Psychiatry provides a full range of diagnosis, treatment and management services for adults suffering from intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Intellectual and developmental disabilities are usually present at birth and can negatively affect the course of a person’s physical, intellectual and/or emotional development.
- Intellectual disabilities are those that display a limited mental ability and difficulty with behaviors such as managing money, schedules and routines, or social interactions. Intellectual disabilities generally start before the age of 18 and may result from physical causes (autism or cerebral palsy) or nonphysical causes (lack of stimulation and adult responsiveness).
- Developmental disabilities are long-term and can affect cognitive ability and/or physical functioning. These disabilities generally surface by age 22 and are lifelong. Some developmental disabilities are physical, such as blindness or being deaf. Others involve both physical and intellectual disabilities caused by Down syndrome or fetal alcohol syndrome.
UH's team of experts specialize in treating a wide range of disabilities including autism, cerebral palsy and those caused by Down syndrome or fetal alcohol syndrome.
There are two clinic locations:
EAST
- UH Cleveland Medical Center (Suite 1165, First Floor, W.O. Walker Center, 10524 Euclid Ave. Cleveland)
WEST
- UH Suite 214, 4065 Center Road, Brunswick, OH 44212
For more information, click
HERE
to visit the Clinic's website or call: 216-983-0027
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Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) Can be used for Parents to attend IEP Meetings for children with serious health conditions
by Michelle Diament | August 16, 2019
A new
opinion letter
from the U.S. Department of Labor suggests that many parents of kids with disabilities are entitled to take time away from work to attend their child’s individualized education program meetings.
In response to an inquiry from a parent, the federal agency said that employees can qualify for leave under the Family and Medical Leave Act, or FMLA, if their presence at an IEP meeting is significant to their ability to provide care for their children.
FMLA guarantees certain employees unpaid, job-protected leave to care for a spouse, child or parent with a serious health condition. Leave can be intermittent and often centers on the need for a loved one to undergo medical care.
Opinion letters from the Labor Department only speak to the specific circumstances of the individuals who the agency is corresponding with. However, the letters do illuminate the agency’s view on the issue at hand and detail relevant laws and court precedents.
In this case, the Labor Department received a request for an opinion from a parent whose wife was granted FMLA leave from her employer to attend medical appointments for their two children with qualifying serious health conditions. However, her employer denied a request for intermittent FMLA leave to attend special education meetings.
The letter writer asked whether FMLA leave should be approved given that their children’s school therapy providers, psychologist, teachers and others provide progress updates and recommendations about care for their kids during four annual IEP meetings.
Based on the information received, the Labor Department’s Wage and Hour Division determined that the writer’s wife had a “qualifying reason for taking intermittent FMLA leave.”
“It appears that your wife’s attendance at IEP meetings is ‘essential to (her) ability to provide appropriate physical or psychological care’ to your children,” reads the opinion letter. “Your wife attends these meetings to help participants make medical decisions concerning your children’s medically-prescribed speech, physical and occupational therapy; to discuss your children’s well-being and progress with the providers of such services; and to ensure that your children’s school environment is suitable to their medical, social and academic needs.”
Furthermore, the opinion noted that “your child’s doctor need not be present at … IEP meetings in order for your spouse’s leave to qualify for intermittent FMLA leave.”
Below is a link for a form from the Department of Labor to request FMLA from your employer.
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Sibling Expressions Art Therapy Group
Sibling Expressions is offered to siblings of children who've been affected by medical or mental illness, or a diagnosis that is life changing. This art therapy group accommodates children ages 6 to 12 years old.
During sessions, siblings explore various art materials to promote self-expression and foster healthy coping skills.
FREE of charge
, space is limited. RSVP as soon as possible.
Cleveland Clinic Children's Hospital for Rehabilitation
2801 Martin Luther King Jr. Dr.
Cleveland, OH 44104
Katie Zaller
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Meet & Greet Resource Fair
Date: April 8, 2020
Location: Don Umerley Civic Center, Rocky River
This free public event designed for families who have concerns about their child (ages birth-12) will highlight providers from across Northeast Ohio. Participants can visit with representatives from numerous organizations to discuss services and explore program options such as:
- Adapted recreation programs and camps
- Alternative schools
- Counselors and mental health providers
- Educational advocates
- Grant/financial aid providers
- Music therapy programs
- Occupational and physical therapists
- Respite providers
- Speech-language pathologists
- Social skills programs
- Tutors and learning disability programs
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Free Sensory Friendly Haircuts
December 13 from 4:00pm - 6:00pm
Sponsor: Medina County Board of DD and Catalyst Farms
Contact: (234) 206-0815
Cost: Free
Once a month, Catalyst Farms is offering free haircuts by stylists while their team of therapists is on hand to offer support. Perfect for children on the autism spectrum or with sensory difficulties! Half hour appointments are offered between 4:00 – 6:00 pm. Please contact Catalyst Farms to register.
Location
1021 Ridgewood Rd
Wadsworth, OH 44281
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Adult Retreat Dec. 13-15, 2019
Sponsor: Akron YMCA Rotary Camp
Contact: (330) 644-4512
Audience: Ages 18+
Cost: $320/weekend
Adult Weekend retreats are created with the adult camper in mind. Campers arrive on Friday evening and stay through Sunday morning. Throughout the weekend campers enjoy traditional camp activities, as well as special seasonal ones. The goals are to provide social opportunities, introduce activities that promote healthy choices, create natural world experiences, increase independence and build self-esteem.
Location
4460 Rex Lane Dr.
Akron, OH 44319
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(Click on links below)
General Concern Articles
Understood
The Mightly
The Mighty
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) Articles
Autism Parenting Magazine
Today
Autism Parenting Magazine
Attention Issues (ADHD) Articles
very well family
Understood
Additude Magazine
Gifted Articles
very well family
Motherly
very well family
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Teen Scene Girls
Sponsor: The Friendship Circle
Session: Every Tuesday, except holidays
Cost: $400/year, or $25/session
Ages: 13-18
Teen Scene Girls presents an abundance of social interaction with crafts and enjoyable activities. Special emphasis is placed on developing event-planning skills. Participants will also focus on cooking, menu planning, etiquette and preparing a Café Night for the community.
Location
27900 Gates Mills Blvd
Pepper Pike, OH 44124
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Social Butterflies Social Skills
Cost: $100/session
Audience: Ages 3-5, 5-7
Designed for children who need to learn to gracefully win and lose games, expand pretend play, compromise, and increase flexibility.
Location
6545 Brecksville Rd.
Independence, OH 44131
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Blue Ribbon Holiday Party
December 13 from 7:00pm - 9:00pm
Cost: $14, includes dinner.
Audience: Ages 14+
Registration deadline Nov 29
Celebrate the holidays at the Blue Ribbon Holiday Extravaganza. The outrageously awesome Conklin Brothers Band will perform for your entertainment and dancing enjoyment. A full dinner will be served.
Location
East 700 Beta Dr
Mayfield, OH 44143
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Westlake Porter Public Library has new Music Therapy Kits that are available for check out at the main circulation desk near the front of the building. The library worked with Music Therapy Enrichment Center (MTEC) to create these kits that may be checked out for three weeks. The kits are renewable and fine
FREE
.
For more information about what is in each kit and photos, visit the library's collection of non-traditional materials web page by clicking
here
and scrolling to the bottom.
These kits complement what MTEC therapists teach during the Connecting for Kids
Music Therapy & More
program so plan to check one out the next time you are at the library
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IDA Central Ohio's first-ever Ohio Summit on Dyslexia
When: February 3, 2020 Time: 8:45am - 4:00pm
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Dyslexia is an issue that demands our attention!
IDA Central Ohio's first-ever Ohio Summit on Dyslexia will serve to:
- Inform and energize people about the issue of dyslexia
- Support the development and work of parents and educational professionals
- Foster and advocate for strategies for serving all of Ohio's children, especially those with dyslexia
Who should attend?
- Teachers, Tutors, Literacy specialists, ESL coordinators, Chief Academic Officers + more
- Superintendents, School Board members, Principals
- Language and special education professionals, Advocates, Psychologists, Pediatricians
- Parents and Community-Based Professionals
- Policy Makers, Legislators and Other Elected Officials
- Anyone Who Wants to Serve Children with Dyslexia!
Highlights include:
Dr. Nadine Gaab - Associate Professor of Pediatrics, Boston Children's Hospital & Harvard Medical School.
Dr. Gaab will talk about the following: The Typical and Atypical Reading Brain: How a Neurobiological Framework of Language and Reading Development Can Inform Clinical and Educational Practice.
Emily Hanford
- Senior Producer and Correspondent for American Public Media; creator of Hard Words: Why Aren't Kids Being Taught to Read?
Emily Hanford will discuss: Discovering the Science of Reading: A Journalist Shares What She Has Learned from Three Years of Reporting on Early Reading Instruction.
They did it, so can you!
- Premiere of the School District Roadmap for Dyslexia Identification, Training and Intervention
IDA Central Ohio and several outstanding Ohio school districts collaborated to create the District Roadmap for Dyslexia Identification, Training and Intervention. District representatives will debut this new Roadmap which identifies policies and practices supporting children with dyslexia.
Panelists:
- Holly Robbertz, District Dyslexia Specialist, Olentangy Local School District
- Steve Griffin, M.A. CCC/SLP, Literacy Director, Marysville Schools
- Andrea Rowson, Instructional Leader, Upper Arlington City Schools
- Kelly Holbrook, Assistant Superintendent, Heath City Schools
- Sue Wieging, Director of Special Education, Gahanna-Jefferson Public Schools
- Kristina Hulse, Director of Special Education, Pickerington Local School District
Breakout session:
I need an answer now! - Parents' Role in Achieving Literacy Success for ALL Children
- How can I support my child who shows signs?
- What are the steps to advocate for my child?
- What questions should I pose to my child's teacher or school?
- What type of instruction do they need?
- What type of reading tutor should I get for my child?
- What should I do if my child continues to struggle?
Join this interactive session with a diverse group of panelists to explore these questions and receive support and guidance. You are not alone! Together, we are stronger!
Panelists:
- Sara Hallerman, Senior Director for Professional Learning, EdLeader21, and member of the Dublin Dyslexia Parent Network
- Brett Tingley, President of Upper Arlington Kids Identified with Dyslexia (UA-KID) and Founder of Ohio Kids Identified with Dyslexia (OH-KID)
- Martha Orbovich, Professional Parent Advocate, Kids First Parent Advocacy
- Dr. Maria Goldman, Pediatric Neuropsychologist
Breakout session:
It Can Be Done! How One School of Education Embraced the Science and Redefined Their Teaching of Reading.
This presentation describes the journey of a School of Education that transformed their reading coursework to systematically teach the Science of Reading across ALL programs. The session will describe this journey and will outline the key actions that led to this transformation.
Key points that will be discussed include: gaining administrative support, getting all faculty on board, the role of K-12 schools, and creating the new curriculum (including Orton Gillingham practicums). Additionally, faculty involvement on a new state-level task force to implement the science of reading in higher education will be discussed.
Panelists:
- Dr. Amy Murdoch, Graduate Chair- School of Education; Associate Professor, Reading Science Program Director, Mount St. Joseph University
- Dr. Beth Corbo, Assistant Professor, Mount St. Joseph University
- Dr. Laura Saylor, Dean of Education and Assistant Professor, School of Education, Mount St. Joseph University
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Epilepsy Association
Kids and Family Services
Services Include:
- One-On-One Resources - Available for families who have a child with epilepsy. Their case managers are available to meet in the community to assess the needs of each family member and connect them with supportive community resources. Their case managers provide general support, epilepsy education, and advocacy.
- Epilepsy Education - Their staff and qualified, trained volunteers provide instructional presentations for students of all grade levels and school staff.
- Kids on the Block Puppet Shows - For children in preschool through 4th grade. The program features the puppet character, “Brian”, who has epilepsy. The goal of the program is to educate students in an age-appropriate way while focusing on dispelling myths surrounding epilepsy. Students have an opportunity to ask Brian questions about having epilepsy. The program also reviews head injury prevention.
- Youth education – For children in 5th through 12th grade. Programming provides age-appropriate epilepsy education, first aid for seizures, and a focus on understanding and acceptance of students with epilepsy.
- School Staff Education – Presentation on epilepsy education, first aid for seizures, recognizing seizures in students, and considerations for having a child with epilepsy in the classroom.
- Be SMART Manual - An Epilepsy education manual designed for school personnel. Click here for download.
Are you living with seizures and need to contact The Epilepsy Association about the services they offer? Do you need to access the resources in our community? No matter your questions, please click on the link and fill out the form and your request will be directed to the correct person.
Click on link below to sign up for The Epilepsy Association Newsletter.
Epilepsy Association
2831 Prospect Ave.,
Cleveland, OH 44115
Telephone: (216) 579-1330
FAX: (216) 771-5114
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Please read...
This newsletter is a resource. Independence Local Schools does not endorse or recommend any providers, methodologies or services from any of the groups or companies listed.
We
urge
you to make independent judgment when selecting a pr
ofessional to assist you.
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Eileen Hawkins, Parent Mentor
Confidential Help Available for help with IEP's, 504 Plans, Resources, Support and more. Services provided
FREE
of charge by the district.
Call
216-524-0424
for more information or
eileen.hawkins@escneo.org
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ReCharge Respite Ministry
Offered Monthly
Call 440-238-6135 for more information.
Sponsor: Strongsville United Methodist Church
Audience: Infants through 22 years old
Cost:
FREE
Includes activities, food and fun. Parents can drop their child off and have 2.5 hours to relax, run errands, go out to dinner, etc. This program is offered monthly.
Advanced registration is required for all ReCharge nights and a first time interview is mandatory before children may attend
Location: 13500 Royalton Rd., Strongsville
OH
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iCan
ls a Network of parents, residents, and city employees working together to provide adapted athletic, fitness, recreational, and social activities to individuals 10 years and older with physical, sensory, or developmental disabilities.
Any individual under the age of 18 or individuals in need of constant guidance or physical patterning are required to have an aide, parent or caregiver present for one-on-one assistance at all times.
For additional information, contact Jim Wotowiec at 216-524-3262, Ext. 2559 or WotowiecJ@IndependenceOhio.org
Register for all activities at the Independence Civic Center Recreation Desk - in person, by calling 216-524-3262, or online at
www.independenceohio.org
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iCAN Basketball or Walkers Club
Elmwood Recreation Center, 6200 Elmwood Drive (Pete Wisniewski Pkwy)
Friday, Dec. 13th 7 - 8:30 PM
FREE
Stay healthy and be active while enjoying a great Friday night with friends in a friendly game of basketball.
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iCAN Aerobic Swimming
Independence Civic Center, 6363 Selig Dr. Independence, OH 44131
Friday, December 20th from 7:00-8:30 PM.
FREE
Enjoy a Friday night with friends in the pool!
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iCAN Independence Community Adapted Network Empowered Sports Basketball
Independence Fieldhouse, 6354 Selig Drive, Independence, OH 44131
Individual and Team Basketball
Mondays, November 11th - January 27th No Basketball December 23rd - 30th
6 - 7:30 Pm
Fee: $30
It's almost basketball season and iCAN cannot wait to get back on the court with some of our favorite players in Independence again this year! During the team program, iCAN will practice some of the basic skills each week along with games with local high school and business volunteer teams. While this is a faster-paced program, games are noncompetitive with a focus on building relationships, social skills and self-esteem. Players will be grouped by age and speed of play where possible. Any questions, please call Jim Wotowiec at 216-524-3262, Ext. 2559 or WotowiecJ@IndependenceOhio.org.
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Introducing: STEM at the Music Settlement
STEM at the Settlement
, is a creative curriculum built to stimulate students' minds through four specific disciplines
science, technology, engineering and mathematics is launching at The Music Settlement's
Ohio City campus
later this month!
STEM at the Settlement is a bi-monthly program designed to engage all members of the community through topics including states of matter, coding, kitchen chemistry and more. The program encourages collaboration with an open-ended approach; participants are not required to arrive at the start of each session as they are flexible in length and attention. The program is
FREE
and open to the public.
- Ideal for children ages 3-8 with a parent or guardian present.
- Registration is required and is now open for themes taking place October through December.
- STEM at the Settlement will conclude in June 2020 and additional STEM theme dates and times will be launched this winter.
Read about upcoming STEM at the Settlement themes and register below:
Light:
What a bright idea! We depend on electricity every minute of the day...but how much do we really know about it? During this session, families will get to explore this amazing form of energy. After a day of circuits and robots, kids will leave with a better understanding of the principles of electricity.
- Saturday, Dec. 14th 10:00 a.m.
- Wednesday, Dec. 18th 5:00 p.m.
STEM at The Settlement is made possible by support from the PWC Charitable Foundation.
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The Up Side of Downs
The Up Side of Downs
exists to provide support, education and advocacy for people with Down syndrome, their families and communities throughout Northeast Ohio. Click on the links below for the area's upcoming events for families.
Upcoming Events - Click on links below:
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Crisis Text Line - Do you need Help?
Families, Children, Teens and Adults of all ages, Get Help For Free!
Text the keyword “4hope” to
741 741
to be connected to a trained Crisis Counselor within 5 minutes.
Any person may need help in coping with a stressful situation. Reach out by text to communicate with someone trained to listen and respond in a method that is private, secure and confidential.
The Crisis Text Line is a free, confidential service available 24/7 via text on mobile devices.
Throughout Ohio, you can text the keyword
“4hope” to
741 741
to be connected to a trained Crisis Counselor. Data usage while texting Crisis Text Line is free and the number will not appear on a phone bill with the mobile service carrier.
People of all ages can use Crisis Text Line
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How Can I Volunteer to Become a Crisis Counselor
?
To become a trained crisis counselor, you must be over 18, go through a rigorous applications process that includes a background check, and receive 34 hours of web-based training. Apply through
crisistextline.org
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Big Red Tool Kit
National Autism Association Safety Initiative for those caring for someone with an Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) who is prone to wandering off from a safe environment, and whose diagnosis may interfere with their ability to recognize danger and/or stay safe. Wandering, elopement, “running” or bolting behaviors among those within our community present unique safety risks, and create extraordinary worry and stress among caregivers. Drowning fatalities following wandering incidents remain a leading cause of death among those with ASD.
Click on the link below for a copy of your tool kit:
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Milestones National Autism Conference June 11 - 12, 2020
Join 1,200 professionals, parents and individuals with autism in Cleveland, OH for world-class speakers, networking and support.
With more than 100 sessions, 10 specialized tracks and 50 exhibitors, this is the must-attend autism event of the year to gain evidence-based, practical strategies for at work, at home or to use in your community. Don't miss this opportunity to connect, learn and raise the bar for what is possible!
Attendee registration opens December 10, 2019.
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