THIS MONTH'S SPONSORS
San Diego Race for Autism Superhero Interactive Virtual Race
Be a SUPERHERO for Autism! Join us in celebrating 16 years of making a difference and changing the futures for thousands with autism in San Diego at the RACE FOR AUTISM SUPERHERO INTERACTIVE VIRTUAL 5K. Grab your cape and run or walk your own course in heroic style on Saturday, March 28, 2020, 7am to 12pm.
Help NFAR continue to change lives and sign up today. 100% of Race donations support San Diego autism programs, services, and hundreds of local classrooms.
DUE TO CORONAVIRUS CONCERNS, the 5K run and 1-mile Walk will now be hosted online at RaceforAutism.org the morning of March 28. The virtual event will feature a VIRTUAL RESOURCE FAIR, photo and video sharing (we still want to see all your great costumes!), prizes, an online race competition, and more surprises. All registrants will receive their Race bib, commemorative medal, t-shirt, and capes for kids through the mail.
The NEW issue of Flourishing Families is available!
We're excited to share with you our newly released 2020 issue which is the most comprehensive listing to date, with 1,200 special needs resources in San Diego and Imperial Counties.
Use the guide to find service providers, research institutes, specialized doctors, resource providers, camps, therapists, advocates, associations and so much more.
Flourishing Families is available as a print magazine, a digital issue and on SNRFSD.org so you can access via your mobile phone.
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| The coronavirus and people with disabilities: WHO highlights this high-risk group |
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Groups at high risk for the coronavirus have been a top priority of the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), as protocol calls to maintain focus on keeping populations such as the elderly, those with underlying medical conditions, and pregnant women safe. One group, however, that has seldom been addressed during the outbreak is that of disabled people, which the WHO is now bringing to light.
The organization at the forefront of the pandemic response discussed the risk faced by those with disabilities during a livestream on TikTok - where it aims to provide accurate information, resources and support for the community - on Thursday. Lindsay Lee, a disability expert at WHO, led the conversation and provided reasons - from lack of information to reliance on people and products for assistance - as to why those living with disabilities may be at greater risk of contracting the illness of COVID-19. Read on... |
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| Introducing Breezzy's Lemonade: 11-year-old 'CEO' creates lucrative business |
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For Aubrie Greene, life is different than a majority of kids his age: He has a lemonade business he created from scratch.
Drawing inspiration from his little brother's cooking endeavors, Aubrie wanted a business of his own. That's when he texted his mom his idea.
"Aubrie ended up sending me a picture of a lemon squeezer," Aubrie's mother, Ceydria McCray, said. "It was at Bed Bath & Beyond on sale for $19.99 and he asked me to grab it up and I did."
That same day he began work on his perfect lemonade recipe. His mom took samples to work and the office loved them. Read on... |
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| 4 reasons why special needs parents are better equipped than everyone else to handle Coronavirus stress |
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I never thought I'd add 'global pandemic' to my list of reasons that special-needs parents love online counseling. And yet here we are.
In the last week, as concern about Covid-19 has increased, I have come to recognize some things that make my counseling clients who are raising kids with disabilities especially adept at handling this time of scarcity, uncertainty, and isolation.
Of course, I have always known how resilient my clients are.
Their challenges are often invisible, and so everyone questions their choices and values. Adversity, fatigue, and loneliness are all daily realities for many of them.
I thought I knew how much grit they had.
Turns out, they had even more than I realized. Read on... |
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| Autism rates declining among wealthy whites, escalating among poor |
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Wealthy, white California counties-once considered the nation's hotbeds for autism spectrum disorder (ASD) - have seen prevalence flatten or fall in the last two decades, while rates among poor whites and minorities keep ticking up, new CU Boulder research has found.
The study, published Thursday in the Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders, raises the possibility that parents in wealthier counties are successfully reducing environmental exposures that may contribute to autism risk, or taking other steps to curb its severity early on.
While that's a hopeful possibility, the authors say, the findings also illuminate a disturbing economic and racial divide. Read on... |
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| Family and Others Looking for Help!!! |
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Do you receive SSI? Don't miss out on food benefits!
Beginning June 2019, many Supplemental Security Income (SSI) recipients will become eligible for CalFresh Food Benefits.
There is NO CHANGE or reduction to SSI/SSP amounts. For more information Click, Call or Come in to your county office to apply and find out more.
Click GetCalFresh.org to apply online
Call 1-877-847-3663 (FOOD)
Come in/find an office at CalFreshFood.org
San Diego Futures - I wanted to make sure everyone was aware of this organization because it can be a helpful resource to families in need of computers and other technology who may not have the resources they need to secure technology for their homes. If anyone needs a laptop or desktop and cannot afford one, please consider reaching out to this group. Desktops and laptops are available at VERY low prices for eligible families. https://sdfutures.org/for-individuals/
Can I ask your perspective on the Medi-Cal dentist scene in San Diego? Have you heard of any particular M-Cal dentists who are good with adults on the spectrum? Our son has always had his dental work done while he's "asleep" through anesthesia. He simply doesn't have the ability to cooperate--other than getting into the chair and getting through the anesthesia process. That's a challenge in itself but it's manageable. Thank you for your recommendations. Our son lives near SDSU so anything central would be great but we're willing to drive for great service. Thank you! -- Julie [email protected]
Hi Valerie, I am a teacher at Linda Vista Elementary and I built a Miller Method Elevated Square years ago to use with my students. I am no longer able to use it with my class because we no longer have a teacher to student ration that would support the program. I would like to give it to someone and feel like your newsletter may be a good way to offer it. The person who picks it up would need a truck. Georgeanne Gedney 619-244-2527
If you have a question or request for this newsletter group, please send your email request to [email protected]. People who can help you will email you directly with their responses. |
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| NEW ISSUE! Flourishing Families 2020 |
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We're excited to share with you our newly released 2020 issue which is the most comprehensive listing to date, with 1,200 special needs resources in San Diego and Imperial Counties.
Use the guide to find service providers, research institutes, specialized doctors, resource providers, camps, therapists, advocates, associations and so much more.
Flourishing Families is available as a print magazine, a digital issue and on SNRFSD.org so you can access via your mobile phone. |
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| Support for Special Needs Families during School Closures |
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In an effort to serve our families and communities better during this time of school closures, we are offering a weekly free Parent Support Group webinar on Sundays at 1p PST. Our hope is to have these weekly not only so we can provide tips on working with your child with special needs from home, but also to build a community so everyone feels supported and less isolated during this uncertain time period.
Pre-registration is required and we will be recording the webinar for those who cannot attend.
As a reminder, participants are encouraged to use only first names when entering the webinar. By participating in the webinar, you implicitly and explicitly assume responsibility for maintaining the confidentiality of you and your student. Advocacy Associates Inc. is not liable for any violation of confidentiality occurring during the webinar as your participation is voluntary. This is not a therapeutic support group.
You are invited to a Zoom webinar.
When: Mar 29, 2020 01:00 PM Pacific Time (US and Canada)
Topic: Check with them.....
Register in advance for this webinar:
https://zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_yQnABxLoSIGNSu3VXUbeiA
After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the webinar. http://www.advocacyassociatesinc.net |
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| Groups for children, teens and young adults enrolling now! |
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Wondering if your child might benefit from joining a group? Give us a call at 858-558-9552 to schedule a free consultation.
Social Communication Specialists
5703 Oberlin Dr., Ste 207
San Diego, CA 92121
(858) 558-9552
[email protected]
https://socialcommunicationspecialists.com |
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| Your Child's Education Comes First |
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Your child is entitled to a "free and appropriate public education" or FAPE, whereby the school addresses all of your child's unique needs. A school district must provide your child with an appropriate education regardless of budget cuts, what's convenient, or what's available. Too often the school district offers a "one size fits all" program that fits within their needs, but not within the unique needs of your child. Ensuring that your child's education comes first means having the right team on your side. An effective team works cooperatively and collaboratively with the school district, using their knowledge, expertise and experience to foster quick and yet effective resolutions.
An Affordable Approach
Because of the "Attorney Fee Recovery" provision of the law, we often work with clients on limited incomes. Before concluding that you are unable to afford an attorney, call us for a free evaluation. Knowing your child's rights allows you the ability to direct the next step! Call for a free consultation: 858-945-6621
About Thomas S. Nelson
As a practicing attorney for over 25 years, Thomas S. Nelson takes great pride in helping special needs children through affordable advocacy and legal services. Through his advocacy and legal representation, Mr. Nelson helps children get the services they need. With a collaborative approach, Thomas brings years of experience to the table to ensure that all of your child's needs are met so they can reach their fullest potential.
The Special Education Advocacy & Law Offices of Thomas S. Nelson
16466 Bernardo Center Drive, Suite 106
San Diego, California 92128
https://www.specialedlaw.us |
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| MicroCurrent 4 Kids is Now a Nonprofit!! |
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Microcurrent 4 Kids is now recognized by the IRS as a non-profit (501(c)(3)) corporation! This means that our innovative therapy program for Autism and other neuro-developmental conditions is now accessible to everyone -- regardless of their financial situation!
Previously our full 3-month program cost upwards of $3000. Understandably, this was unaffordable for many families. Our mission has always been to make a meaningful impact in the lives of kids and families affected by Autism, and so we made the decision to change our structure so that money is not a barrier for families in need to participate in our program.
Safer than Prescription Medication for Anxiety and ADHD/ADD and the Effects are Permanent!
FDA Approved Therapy for Anxiety!!!
MicroCurrent 4 Kids is San Diego's premiere microcurrent therapy program for children, teens and adults with special needs. Our program is the BEST therapy for Autism and ADHD/ADD, as you will see by the rapid improvement in your child's skills and abilities, because of how well it promotes developmental growth and couples with ALL other therapies.
MicroCurrent 4 Kids
4540 Kearny Villa Rd. Ste. 211
San Diego, CA 92123
858-367-9108
http://www.microcurrent4kids.com |
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| Explore 33 National Parks for FREE! |
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I've gathered 33 National Park Tours you can virtually. Yes, that means you can explore National Parks from the comfort of your home and in your pajamas! Click here for all the info!!! |
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| Job Skills and Life Skills at Home |
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Job Skills and Life Skills
Dates: Now through March 30
Location: Your Computer
Join us from your computer for this presentation from the National TACA Autism Conference.
Job Skills and Life Skills is presented by TACA and will give caregivers and parents ideas to help their child with autism work on Job Skills and Life Skills at home.
Sign in at this link anytime from now until March 30th to obtain password and view this one hour free presentation.
https://tacanow.salsalabs.org/chapter_education |
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| Share & Care #3: Preventing and Managing Severe Autism Behaviors at Home |
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Many autism families are facing tremendous hardship during the coronavirus crisis. This interactive online forum will focus on strategies for families living with challenging behaviors, such as aggression, property destruction, pica, and self-injury. Featuring Matthew Siegel, MD, Maine Behavioral Healthcare, Gloria Satriale, Ed.D, JD, BSL, ACRE, Preparing Adolescents & Adults for Life, PA.
Attendees are welcome to submit comments or questions during the event via the GoToWebinar control panel or ahead of time to [email protected].
Moderated by Jill Escher and Amy Lutz, NCSA.
Thursday, March 26, 12.30-2pm Pacific (3.30pm Eastern)
Free, please register here!
This forum will be recorded and linked from this page and our social media.
We thank Autism Society San Francisco Bay Area for its assistance with our webinar events. |
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| Webinar - Sleep and Autism: Helping Children and Families Get the Rest They Need |
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Register here for the webinar
Beth A. Malow, MD, MS is Burry Chair in Cognitive Childhood Development and Professor of Neurology and Pediatrics, and Director of the Sleep Division at Vanderbilt University Medical Center. Dr. Malow's research program focuses on the impact of treating sleep problems in autism on daytime functioning and quality of life. Inspired by raising two sons on the autism spectrum, who are now in college, Dr. Malow has published more than 120 peer-reviewed articles, along with multiple books, book chapters and review articles. She serves as the principal investigator for Vanderbilt's Autism Speaks Autism Treatment Network (AS ATN) site, one of 12 regional centers across North America funded to develop standards of medical care for children with autism. |
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| ASD Mornings at the NAT |
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The San Diego Natural History Museum (The Nat) is pleased to offer a program for the Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) community: a once-a-month ASD Morning in which the Museum opens early for adults and children on the autism spectrum and their families, friends, and caregivers. This innovative program encourages individuals to explore, play, and discover the treasures The Nat has to offer in an environment that is comfortable for them.
ASD Mornings take place the second Sunday of every month. The Museum will open at 9 AM*, one hour earlier than its standard 10 AM opening time, providing a quiet and less-crowded environment for visitors to explore the Museum's galleries at their own pace. In addition, on ASD Mornings the Museum will offer a "quiet room" from 9 AM to noon if visitors need a quiet space to decompress or desensitize. General admission rates apply during ASD Mornings.
www.sdnhm.org
877.946.7797
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| Autism Accessibility Morning at the Fleet! |
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The third Saturday of every month, Fleet invites the Autism Spectrum Community to enjoy our museum through this special opportunity. Adults and families with children with autism can enjoy the Fleet's exhibit galleries in a quieter setting, an hour before regular open hours to the general public and with access to a special cool-off space. Visitors are welcome to stay and enjoy the museum all day. Admission includes a special IMAX film screening at 10 a.m. with the house lights on and a lower soundtrack volume.
For more information, visit www.fleetscience.org/events/autism-accessibility-mornings.
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| Everyone Deserves a Loving Home |
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| Autism Through the Lifespan |
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Please RSVP for Spanish Translation support
For further information, please contact:
Carolyn Carterette, M.A. (619) 725-8080 email: [email protected]
Grace Fantaroni, Ed.D. (619) 563-2839 email [email protected]
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| Therapeutic Recreation Services 2020 Spring Calendar |
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The Spring 2020 Calendar is now available! Here is the link to the new program calendar: https://www.sandiego.gov/sites/default/files/trscalendarspring.pdf
The 1st day of registration for Spring activities will be this Saturday, February 15 at 10:00 a.m. Registration can be done online at www.sdrecconnect.com or at our office at the War Memorial Building- 3325 Zoo Drive, San Diego CA 92101. If you plan on registering at our office, please remember we no longer take cash as a method of payment.
The 1st day of Summer Camp registrations will be on Saturday, March 7th at 10:00 a.m. Camp dates and times can be found on page 7.
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| Webinar: Learn About RDI with Kiki Haddad! |
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| Webinar: Learn About RDI with Brooke Wagner |
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| Toddler MRI Study at SDSU |
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Our Center's research arm, the Brain Development Imaging Labs, is conducting a fascinating study looking at how young children's brains change as they get older. We are looking for kids (15 months to 5 years old) who are on the spectrum or who are suspected to have autism. Participants get a free assessment (plus assessment summary), free MRI scan, $150, AND a free picture of their brain!
For more info or to sign up, please call us at 619-594-2500 or email us at [email protected]. Thank you! http://autism.sdsu.edu
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| Participate in SPARK at UCSD |
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UC San Diego's Autism Center of Excellence is seeking individuals diagnosed with ASD and their biological family members to participate in SPARK, the largest national genetics research project in US history! The SPARK study aims to gain a better understanding of the causes and potential treatments of autism by building a cohort of 50,000 diagnosed individuals to facilitate research on an unprecedented scale. There is NO cost to participate in the study and it can even be completed without leaving the house!
What we do
SPARK researchers extract genetic data through a saliva sample and analyze information collected from thousands of people with autism and their biological parents. UCSD and over 20 of the nation's leading medical schools are part of this effort.
How to join*
1. Sign up online at
www.sparkforautism.org/ucsd.sarrc -- registration typically takes about 20 minutes. Using this link connects you to our site, which enables us to better follow up with you if you encounter any issues or have specific questions.
2. Complete a few questionnaires online.
3. Provide a saliva sample. A saliva collection kit will be sent directly to your home after registration. When you are done, simply mail it back in the prepaid mailer.
Benefits of joining
1. Individuals with autism will receive gift cards valued at up to a total of $50 for participation.
2. SPARK hosts monthly webinars, featuring psychologists, researchers, or speakers from the autism community, that provide useful information for families and individuals with autism.
3. If a genetic finding is discovered related to the cause of autism, results will be shared back with families.
4. The information you provide may help others with ASD for generations to come!
*Our site also offers the option for home appointments where a member of our SPARK team can come to your home and assist you in the registration process, collect the saliva samples, and mail them in for you! This is typically the preferred method for families as everything gets completed at once. Please note that we ask that both biological parents and individual diagnosed with ASD be present for these appointments. We can accommodate a variety of dates and times outside normal business hours on the weekdays or weekends -- whichever is most convenient for you and your family! Alternatively, we can also schedule in-clinic appointments at our office if that is preferred.
You can visit our SPARK FAQ page for additional details. Please contact us via email at [email protected] or via phone at 858-534-6906 if you would like to set up an appointment or if you have any questions!
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| Older Adults with Autism (40-75 yrs old) Needed for Study |
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We are looking for older adults with autism (40-75 yrs old) to be in our brain imaging study! Anyone with a diagnosis or suspects that she or he has autism is invited to reach out to us. Participants receive a free assessment, free MRI brain scan, and around $150! If you know anyone who might be interested in this, please have them email
[email protected] or call us at 619-594-0176. Thank you!
http://autism.sdsu.edu
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| Participate in a Study at Research on Autism and Development Laboratory at UCSD |
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| SDSU Center for Autism Brain Study Needs Volunteers! |
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The SDSU Center for Autism is conducting a behavioral and brain imaging study with youth (7-21 years old) on the spectrum. We are trying to understand how the brain changes as children become young adults.
Participants get a free assessment, a free MRI scan, about $150, and a free picture of their brain! If you are interested, call us at 619-594-0176, or email us at
[email protected]. Thank you!
http://autism.sdsu.edu
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