Family Connections Newsletter
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Eileen Hawkins,
Parent Mentor
November, 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.
Upcoming Class:
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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Dear Special Needs Mom,
I want you to know that I see you!
I see you running your child to therapy when your friends are running their kids to Little League.
I see you slipping out the of conversation when your friends are all chiming in about milestones and test grades.
I see you juggling appointments and meetings, always making sure you do the best for your child.
I see you sitting at your computer for hours researching what your child needs.
I see you cringe when people whine about the petty things that pale in comparison to your day.
I see you spread thin, but still going the extra mile for your family, and managing to do it with a smile.
I see you digging for depths of strength you never dreamed you had.
I see you showing appreciation to the teachers, therapists and medical professionals who serve your child with ou.
I see you reluctantly rising early in the morning to do it all again after another chaotic night.
I see you when you’re hanging on to the end of your rope for dear life.
I know you feel invisible, like nobody notices any of it. But I want you to know that I notice you. I see you in the trenches, relentlessly pushing onward. I see you keep choosing to do everything in your power to give your child the best possible care at home, in school, at therapy, and the doctor. What you’re doing matters. It’s worth it. On those days when you wonder if you can do it another minute, I want you to know that I see you. I want you to know that you’re beautiful. I want you to know that it’s worth it. I want you to know that you aren’t alone. I want you to know that love is what matters most, and you have that nailed.
And on those days when you have breakthroughs, those times when the hard work, pays off and success is yours to cherish, I see you then too, and I am proud of you.
Whichever day today is, you’re worthy, you’re good, and I see you.
Alethea Jo, Writer
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Rate Review
Realize the Value
A website for families, guardians and people with developmental disabilities to find information, read anonymous reviews and search for agency providers in Ohio.
This search tool is best used with other planning efforts at your local county board of developmental board of developmental disabilities.
Search for a Provider:
To find an agency provider, follow these steps
:
- Enter ProviderGuidePlus.com in the browser
- On the home page, click Search by Service.
- Select your county, funding type and the service needed in the boxes provided.
- Click the blue Search Button. On the search results page, agencies currently providing services in your county will be listed beginning with the highest ranked providers.
- Click on a provider name to learn more about the agency and to read anonymous reviews.
- You can save your favorite search results when you click Add to Favorites then follow the instructions to create a FREE account.
Click
Help at the top of the home page for more search instructions. Viewed by more than 30,000 people in its first year.
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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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How can I encourage my child to talk?
What should I do if he won't imitate my language? How can I help her express herself?
Join Kelly Wilber, MS, CCC-SLP, of Cleveland Clinic Children's Rehab as she teaches six practical strategies to enhance language development for "late talkers" or emergent communicators. Apply these strategies at home and supplement your child's speech therapy sessions with increased confidence.
This program is for families of toddlers and preschoolers (ages 2-6 years) and will be relevant to children with and without a formal diagnosis.
Co-sponsored by the Lakewood Family Room.
November 12, 2019, 6:30 pm
Lakewood Public Library,
15425 Detroit Rd.Lakewood, OH 44107.
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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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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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Teach Me to Play
This month, you'll learn about waiting. Children need to learn how to wait to take turns while parents and caregivers must wait and allow the child time to listen, process and respond. Join CFK Staff as they practice waiting with some fun activities.
Teach Me to Play offers your child a host of new activities and experiences each time he or she attends. For parents and caregivers, there is a Parent Education Focus that provides information on a variety of developmentally appropriate topics. Your child will enjoy playing with other children while practicing language and social skills. Since you attend together, you will have the option of interacting with our experienced Early Intervention Specialist and Speech-Language Pathologist. They can suggest strategies for managing problem behaviors, offer tips for increasing your child's communication skills, or share resources. This program is specifically designed for children ages 18 months-6 years who are struggling in an area of development. Come and connect with other families in a supportive and accepting environment.
Thursday, November 21, 2019 & Friday, November, 22, 2019, @ Westake Porter Public Library, 27333 Center Ridge Rd., Westlake, OH 44145, 440-871-2600.
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Wrapping Up Social Skills for the Holidays
This hands-on training program is designed for families and their children (ages 7-12 years) who are struggling.
Families will learn targeted skills together and receive a handout with ideas and resources to use at home. Adults are expected to participate in the program with their children. Siblings (ages 7-12 years) may also attend but must register separately.
The holidays are a fun and exciting time but can also become overwhelming and confusing for those who struggle with social skills. This program, led by Ellen Spear, MA, CCC-SLP, of Lakeshore Speech Therapy, LLC., is designed to help navigate the many social situations, hidden rules and potential problems related to the holidays.
Join us as we discuss how to make conversation with relatives and friends, tips for handling holiday parties and appropriate ways to give and receive gifts.
Saturday, November 16, 2019
L
akewood Public Library,15425 Detroit Rd.,Lakewood, OH 44107.
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Creative Housing Options - Tuesday Nov. 12 6:30-8:30 pm
ESC NE Ohio, 6393 Oak Tree Blvd. Independence, OH 44131
FREE
Presenter
:
Leah Dalton, The Cuyahoga County Board of Developmental Disabilities Housing and Placement Manager
Learn how Individuals with Developmental Disabilities receive assistance finding new homes and creative living options with help from CCBDD's Community Medicaid Services Department Whether someone wants to live on his/her own, with roommates, or with family members, options and supports are available.
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Autism Society of Greater Cleveland
The Autism Society of Greater Cleveland (ASGC) will host Taking Care of Yourself and Supporting Maximum Independence in Individuals with Disabilities
with Ron Zybera. This
FREE
event is perfect for discussing embracing challenges, inspiring, taking care of yourself and growth.
Pleas
e note that Childcare WILL be available at this meeting for those who pre-register. In addition, Game Night will be available for Teens in high school to interested adult.
When
: Tuesday, November 12, 2019
Time: 6:30 -8:00 PM
Where: Independence Civic Center, 6363 Selig Blvd, Independence, OH 44131
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Save the Date... December 21, 2019 from 12-2 PM
Holiday Party at The Rec Center
$5.00 per person/$25.00 Family Maximum
6200 Elmwood Dr. (Pete Wisniewski's Pkwy., Independence, OH 44131
Join the ASGC for music, food, and a special visit from Santa! Gifts will be
provided for all registered children & teens.
Photos with Santa will be available, please bring your own camera. Please RSVP by December 13 to 216-524-3262
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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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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 Bowling - Seven Hills Lanes
7279 Broadview Rd, Seven Hills, OH 44131 · (216) 447-1868
Saturdays, November 9th, 16th & 30th
10 am - NOON
Fee: $15 - includes Bowling, Pizza and Soft Drinks Sharpen up Your Bowling Skills and Enjoy a Morning of Bowling with friends! Register online at
www.independenceohio.org
or by calling 216-524-3262
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iCAN Basketball or Walkers Club
Elmwood Recreation Center, 6200 Elmwood Drive (Pete Wisniewski Pkwy)
Fridays, November 22nd, December 6th &13th l 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 November15th & 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:
Building & Construction:
From boats to bridges, Building & Construction is a day of engineering fun where kids will be able to build, explore and discover. Engineering stations allow for creative exploration of how and why things are built. Families will work together to design, build and work on problem-solving strategies.
- Saturday, Nov.16th 10:00 a.m.
- Wednesday, Nov. 20th 5:00 p.m.
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 NEW TippyTalk
Speech Technology App for iPads
TippyTalk is an Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) app that allows a person living with a verbal disability to communicate by translating customized pictures into personalized
text messages, which are then sent to a family member or care givers phone or tablet.
TippyTalk allows you, the parent or caregiver to capture images that are uniquely identifiable and familiar to the person living with the verbal disability.
You simply take a picture of an object, place, or person and apply the appropriate text.
You can also reinforce language development by recording your voice over each picture insuring the person living with the disability will recognize and understand the messag
e.
This communication is not restricted by distance the person living with the verbal disability can communicate with whomever they chose no matter where they may be in the world.
To try out Tippy Talk on an iPad, visit Assistive Technology of Ohio's Website:
Lending Library
page, and complete a request/agreement form.
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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
.
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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Cleveland Area Transition Bootcamp IEPs & Writing Transition Goals
Nov. 21,2019 6:30 -8:30 PM
These sessions are free for parents, caregivers and professionals who work with youth and young adults who have developmental disabilities and/or complex medical needs.
Cleveland Clinic South Pointe Hospital
2000 Harvard Rd.
Warrensville Heights, OH
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