Attachment(s) from cindipaschall@sbcglobal.net

Complete guide to social stories

One Place for Special Needs has created the complete guide to social stories, a compilation of over 200 free stories including: back to school, behavior, birthday parties, blood draw and EEG tests, dentist and doctor visits, hygiene, making friends, manners, safety, toilet training and more. http://bit.ly/ mJhRMz

This is interesting information about keeping up with “Apps” and opening door for children/ adults with technology!!

The message is ready to be sent with the following file or link attachments:

Shortcut to: http://www.pacer.org/stc/pubs/AllAboutAppsforEducationHandout.pdf

Maggie’s Hope is a nonprofit organization with locations in Austin, TX and Peachtree City, GA. Our goal is to obtain knowledge, promote awareness & most importantly support those affected by this frustrating, but sometimes improvable condition.

We have a scholarship fund for families with a child with ASD. Preference is given to those families in TX or GA, and who are seeking funds to pay off unpaid medical bills, fund traditional and non-traditional therapies, and help pay the costs of biomedical interventions, supplements, and specialized diets. All are encouraged to apply.

To apply for funds:
http://www.maggiesh ope.org/contact/ apply-for- funds

Maggie’s Hope is a nonprofit organization with locations in Austin, TX and Peachtree City, GA. Our goal is to obtain knowledge, promote awareness & most importantly support those affected by this frustrating, but sometimes improvable condition.

We have a scholarship fund for families with a child with ASD. Preference is given to those families in TX or GA, and who are seeking funds to pay off unpaid medical bills, fund traditional and non-traditional therapies, and help pay the costs of biomedical interventions, supplements, and specialized diets. All are encouraged to apply.

To apply for funds:
http://www.maggiesh ope.org/contact/ apply-for- funds

We are trying to raise more money so we can help more families with our $500 scholarships. Won’t you please consider sharing the information about our upcoming golf tournament and gala in Barton Creek Golf Course in Austin? Thanks for your help.

Join Maggie’s Hope and Barton Creek Resort & Spa for the Golf and Gala Extravaganza July 22, 2011. Sponsor a foursome or hole and give HOPE to a child experiencing autism. Held at the Barton Creek Country Club Fazio Foothills Friday at 7 a.m. for registration with an 8 a.m. tee off. Tickets include the all day Golf Tournament with boxed lunch and drinks followed by 6:30 p.m. Gala and Awards Dinner as well as Live and Silent Auction events. Entertainment for the evening is provided by the great Cory Morrow! You don’t want to miss this event!

Link: http://www.maggiesh ope.org/events/ fazio

Thank you for taking the time to learn more about Maggie’s Hope.

Raissa Chandler
Mom to twins who are both affected by autism
Maggie’s Hope
www.maggieshope. org





shared by Noah Knows! from Family to Family Network

July 9^th, 10:30 am – Noon, “The Gift of Life: A Seminar for Parents of Children with Disabilities”. Presented by Tyler Pearson Agency and Hegwood & Associates, P.C. Located at Golfcrest Country Club, 2509 Country Club Drive , Pearland , TX . To secure a seat, please call 281 – 996 – 6969.

July 10^th, 6:30 – 8:30 p.m., “Executive Function and Its Impact on Reading “ presented by Debbie Meinwald, CALT and LDT (Certified academic language therapist and a licensed dyslexia therapist). Located at St. Peter’s United Methodist Church , 20775 Kingsland Blvd. in room S201.

July 12^th, 6:30 pm, “Related Services” presented by the TEAM Project Office, 5005 W 34th St., Suite 207A , Houston .  For more information, please contact TEAM at 713-524-2147 or prnteam@sbcglobal.net.

July 13^th, 9 am – Noon “Understanding and Managing Challenging Behaviors in Children with ASD”. Presented by Rachel Halpern, M.Ed., BCBA. To register, visit www.depelchin.org/autismCEUs . Registration is $35.00 per session. CEUs will be provided to LMFTs, LPCs and LCSWs. Other providers will receive contact hours. Participants can bring their lunch or purchase lunch at Café DePelchin. Location: 4950 Memorial Drive , Houston , 77007.

July 14^th,   9:30 am “Related Services” presented by the TEAM Project Office, 5005 W 34th St., Suite 207A , Houston . For more information, please contact TEAM at 713-524-2147 or prnteam@sbcglobal.net.

July 14^th 11:30 am “Servicios Relacionados” – Este taller es presentado sólo en español. TEAM Project Office, 5005 W 34th St., Suite 207A , Houston . Si piensa asistir o para más información favor de comunicarse al teléfono 713-524-2147 o envíe un email a prnteam@sbcglobal.net.

July 16^th, 9:00 am – 4:00 pm, “The ABCs of ABA “, University of Houston Central Campus , (Register by July 6^th to save) Contact FEAT Houston for more information:  feathouston@gmail.com.

July 16^th, “Fun in the Sun”. A day for kids of all ages to play around and have fun in the summer. It’s scheduled to be held in the parking lot of Smartie Pants Academy . There will be booths/performances and the media (local news, radio stations, blogs, etc.) have already confirmed they are coming, and rapper Slim Thug is coming to campaign since he has a nephew who struggles with a disability. For more information, contact Sumiko Hamilton at 281-859-5455.

July 19, 7-9 pm, “Autism and Bullying — Strategies for Parents”.  Presented by Leslie Phillips.   Learn basics of bullying prevalence as it applies to children with autism as well as strategies for parents to help their child avoid victimization. Also learn critical strategies to know if your child is accused of bullying. Katy Autism Support group meets at St Peters United Methodist Church, 20775 Kingsland Blvd , Asbury Hall, Katy.  Free childcare available but must be reserved in advance.  For more info, email fareastphillips@yahoo.com.

July 19^th, 11:30 am  ”Servicios Relacionados” – Este taller es presentado sólo en español. TEAM Project Office, 5005 W 34th St., Suite 207A , Houston .. Si piensa asistir o para más información favor de comunicarse al teléfono 713-524-2147 o envíe un email a prnteam@sbcglobal.net.

July 21^st , 6:30 pm “Families CAN Transition Workgroup” Speaker TBA. Location: Shriner’s Hospital; 6977 Main St. (just past intersection of Main and Holcombe). Hospital parking: free. Pizza and drinks are provided by Maxim Pediatric Services. Note: If you do not get a chance to RSVP, come anyway, we may still have enough pizza! For more information contact: Margaret Hall at 713-743-0608, or in Spanish: Teresa Guzman and Olga Guerra at 713-743-5592.  mphall@sentral.uh.edu .

July 22^nd, 23^rd, 24^th “Great Minds Think Alike” Training for Teens Ages 12 -17 can register. Free classes, door prizes, food and refreshments, certificates and gift cards sponsored by NAMI Metro Houston.  This program is for youth with mental health needs designed to provide teens with the skills necessary to take a leadership role in their own treatment.  Marcie L. Keys Activity Center , 8302 Colonial Lane , Houston , 77051.  For more information:  www.namimetrohouston.org .  Register at 713 970-4419 or email ak_hudson@yahoo.com.

July 23^rd, 2:00 pm – 5:00 pm, “Miss Deaf Texas Pageant”, Lone Star College – Center for Arts, 9191 Barker Cypress Rd , Cypress , 77433.  For more information: http://missdeaftexas.com/

 July 26^th, 6:45 pm. “Jim Gill’s Family Room Tour” (www.jimgill.com) at Region 4 Education Service Center, 7145 West Tidwell , Houston, 77092.  FREE – Register at:  www.escweb.net/tx_esc_04/default  Enter session code:  696593.

July 27^th, 9 am – Noon “Promoting Play and Social Skills in Children with ASD”. Presented by Rachel Halpern, M.Ed., BCBA.   To register, visit www.depelchin.org/autismCEUs . Registration is $35.00 per session. CEUs will be provided to LMFTs, LPCs and LCSWs. Other providers will receive contact hours. Participants can bring their lunch or purchase lunch at Café DePelchin. Location: 4950 Memorial Drive , Houston , TX 77007 .

July 28^th – 30^th, Texas Home School Coalition Conference, The Woodlands.  For more information and to register online:  http://www.thsc.org/Categories.aspx?Id=Convention

July 28^th, 9:30 a.m. “ABC’s of IFSP’s” presented by the TEAM Project Office, 5005 W 34th St., Suite 207A, Houston, For more information, please contact TEAM at 713-524-2147 or prnteam@sbcglobal.net.

July 28^th, 11:30 am “ABC’s del IFSP’s” – Este taller es presentado sólo en español. TEAM Project Office, 5005 W 34th St., Suite 207A , Houston ,. Si piensa asistir o para más información favor de comunicarse al teléfono 713-524-2147 o envíe un email a prnteam@sbcglobal.net.”

July 29^th, Noon – 1:00 pm – Houston Area Partnership for Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders Parent Support Group.  Bring your lunch. Meeting at Council on Alcohol and Drugs, 303 Jackson Hill, Houston , 77007. No Childcare. For more information: Grier Patton at grier.patton@gmail.com

July 29-30^th, NAMI Peer to Peer Mentor (Teacher) Training, Fort Worth .  elizabeth@namimetrohouston.org 832-296-6298.

July 30^th 2011 Texas Autism Research Conference, at Commons Learning Center at University of Texas J.J. Pickle Research Campus, Austin . For more information, http://www.dads.state.tx.us/tarrc/research

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Upcoming Conferences

August 4^th, Gulf Coast African American Family Support Conference, Houston Marriott North, Houston, 77060.  For more information and to register online:  https://panetwork.parentsanonymous.org/gctaafsc/ 

August 5-7^th, National Down Syndrome Congress Annual Conference, Marriot Hill Country Resort, San Antonio , TX .  Includes a Youth & Adult conference, as well as a Brothers & Sisters Conference.  Best Value registration Deadline – June 24^th.   For more information and online registration: http://convention.ndsccenter.org/  

August 8 -11^th, The Institute on Person Centered Practices Person Centered Thinking Conference. College Station , Texas . Session 1 – Aug 8 & 9 – Person Centered Thinking Training.  Session 2 (Must have completed Session 1) Aug 10 & 11 – Plan Facilitation.  For more information and to register:  www.pcpinstitute.org

August 13-14^th, Autism NOW Regional Summit, Austin, TX  http://autismnow.org/events/ 

August 26^th – 28^th, ” Texas Advocates Conference”; Omni Hotel, San Antonio.  For more information: http://www.thearcoftexas.org/site/PageServer?pagename=events_annual_conference_texas

Sept. 15 – 16th, “A Journey through the Autism Spectrum”, with Dr. Paula Kluth (15^th) and Dr. Temple Grandin (16^th); presented by Spectrum Training Systems; Sheraton North Houston, 15700 JFK Blvd , Houston77032.  Conference fees: 2 Days $175 Early bird before Aug 1; $205 after; 1 Day $125 Early Bird before Aug 1; $145 after.  For more information and to register online:  http://www.spectrumtrainingsystemsinc.com/houston.html

September 16-17^th, “Beyond the ARD: Parents Engaged for Positive Change“, Austin Airport Hilton, Austin .  For more information and to register: http://www.partnerstx.org/LeadershipConference/index.html

October 13^th– 15^th, “20^th Annual Texas Autism Conference”, presented by Education Service Center , Region 2.  Reliant Park Convention Center , Houston , TX . http://autism.esc2.net/conference/index.asp

October 20^th,   9:00 am – 4:30 pm; “Wrightslaw Special Education Law & Advocacy Training Workshop”.  Hosted by National Autism Assoc. of North Texas at First Baptist Church of Plano , 1300 East 15^th St , Plano , 75074.  $ 75 Early Registration ends Sept  16^th. . For more information, http://wrightslaw.eventbright.com  

October, 2011, “Deaf-Blind Multihandicapped Association of Texas Conference” at Camp John Marc, Meridian , TX http://www.dbmat-tx.org/annual_conference/a_c.html

November 4-6^th, “6th Annual Texas Chargers Retreat”, Camp Allen Retreat Center , Navasota www.texaschargers.org

Becomea Fan of Family to Family Network on www.Facebook. com to ensure you stay up to date on Family To Family Network events. RSVP online for Events.

Camps/Summer programs

Camp Blessing is now accepting applications for June/July 2011.  More info at www.campblessing.org .

Fine Arts Summer Camp 2011 for the River Performing and Visual Arts Center, An Affiliate of Theatre Under The Stars, 1475 West Gray, Houston , 77019. Registration and financial aid applications are available at http://theriver.org/public/pag10.aspx .  Contact us at 713-520-1220.

Staying Social this Summer (Summer Social Group Fun, Saturday Bond Club, and Teen Social Group) at SocialMotion Skills. Register at http://www.socialmotionskills.org/summer2011.html or call 713-705-6851

Focus Initiative Summer Program.  Register at http://www.asdfocus.com/ or call 281-240-0663

Giggles N Grins Summer Camp. For more information, call 713-208-7186 or www.gigglesngrinschildcareacademy.com

Lighthouse Learning & Resource, Inc 10928 Grant Road, Houston 77070.

*Family Literacy Network one-on-one reading instruction – research based (UT Houston) and proven successful for the most struggling readers.  Contact – 713-784-7373, help@familyliteracy.info

*PAWS – Partnering Animals With Success – Social Skills Training using video modeling and trained dogs – curriculum based instruction beneficial to children with unique needs ~ Autism spectrum, ADHD, Down’s Syndrome, Emotional Disturbance, ect. beginning July 5. Contact Lesley les_zentz@yahoo.com  Visit www.LHlearningresource.com  for more information.
Texas School for Deaf – Summer Programs 2011.  For more information:  http://www.tsd.state.tx.us/sum_prg/index.html

ABA – SkIP’s Summer Sessions! Student: Teacher ratio of 2:1 for children with autism ages 3-10. Classes will be held Monday – Thursday, 8:00am – 12:00pm OR 1:30pm – 5:30pm.   For more information contact: Amanda L. Sitomer, M.S., BCBA at 713-970-7932 or Amanda.Sitomer@mhmraharris.org   MHMRA of Harris County – 3737 Dacoma , Suite D – Houston, 77092

Camp Lane Summer 2011 Open to all ages.  The classes will normally take place on Fridays in July, but there are two mandatory camper orientation days scheduled Saturday June 11th and June 25^th. Location: The Learning Lane , 25232 Grogans Park Drive , The Woodlands, 77380

Phone: 281-465-3519 www.thelearninglane.com

Camp Ability Summer Day Camp 2011. (Preschool: June 20^th – 24^th , Teens: June 27^th – July 1^st, School Aged: July 25^th – 29^th) For children/teens with Down Syndrome and their siblings ages 3 – 17 years at our Resource Center . One week sessions are for preschoolers (3-6 yrs), school aged (7-12 yrs), and teens (13- 17 yrs). Our theme is Dinosaurs! Cost for the entire week, not per day, is $60 for all day 9 am – 4 pm and $30 for half day which is 3 hours either morning 9 am – noon or 1- 4 pm. Contact Ann Fontenot at president@dsah.org.

Steps To Progress “Summer Social Skills Classes” July 11^th – 29^th (Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 1:00 – 4:30 pm), Location: Steps to Progress LLC Clinic – 2055 S. Gessner , Suite 230 , Houston 77063. Cost: $900 per three week session. Class sizes will be limited to six students.  The student: teacher ratio will be 2:1 or less to ensure that we are able to focus on each child’s specific needs. We will have classes for two age groups: 4 – 5 year olds, and 6 – 8 year olds. For more information please call us at 713-782-1330 or send an e-mail to info@stepstoprogress.com . 

Weekly Programs

Respite Program – HARC: Friday Nights:  Katy – St Peter’s United Methodist Church , Houston – Down Syndrome Association of Houston, Bellaire – Gethsemane United Methodist Church .  Fun for kids and adults with disabilities and a NIGHT OUT for parents.  HARC is a respite program for individuals with ALL types of disabilities. Everyone should bring their own snacks and drinks.  For reservations or questions, please contact: Cathleen Wilt, cwilt@eastersealshouston.orgor(713) 838-9050 x 369. Reservations must be made by email or phone. All families must have a current application completed for each person attending. Times and age groups differ for each location. Check out www.eastersealshouston.org for more information.

On-Going Training Opportunities-Houston Center for Independent Living

Computer Access Training Program – Learn about computers and software so you’re not left behind on the information technology superhighway. Classes are Mon – Fri; 8 am – 12 noon at Houston Center For Independent Living, 6201 Bonhomme Rd, Suite 150 South, Houston , TX   77036 . Pre-registration Required.  713-974-4621

Assistive Technology Computer Demonstration Tour – Come to HCIL and try out various technologies.  See demonstrations, try-out, learn and practice on some of today’s most “User Friendly” computer access equipment. Mon – Fri, 8 am – 12 noon at Houston Center For Independent Living, 6201Bonhomme Rd, Suite 150 South, Houston , TX   77036 .  No appointment necessary.  713-974-4621

Thursdays: 10 – 11:30 am; Consumer Orientation to HCIL services. Learn how to advocate for yourself.  Houston Center for Independent Living, 6201 Bonhomme Rd, Suite 150 South, Houston , TX   77036 .  No appointment necessary.  713-974-4621

Monthly Meetings

Autism Support Groups:

1^stThursday of each month, 6:45 – 9 p.m. “Information and Hope for Families” for Spanish Speaking Parents.  Meetings held at the Graceview Baptist Church , 25510 Tomball Parkway , Tomball , TX 77375 . Support group for parents of children with challenges like Autism, PPD-NOS, Asperger Syndrome, ADD, ADHD, Dyslexia, and others. Contact Carmen Pulgerat(281)773-8318 or mcpulger@att.net for additional information.

1^st Thursday of each month (September 1, October 6^th, November 3^rd, December 1^st, February 2^nd, March 1^st, April 5^th, May 3^rd ) 7:00 – 9:00 pm, Autism Society of America – Northwest Houston Chapter. Location: Graceview Baptist Church North Campus Education Building , 25510 Tomball Parkway , Tomball , TX 77375 . Desperate for Respite, a non-profit organization will provide childcare for our meetings on a reservation only basis! Reservations must be made one week prior to meeting date by contacting MichelleMGuppy@yahoo.com .  Your information will be forwarded to Desperate for Respite for them to contact you to confirm.

1^st  Saturday of each month, 10 a .m. – 12noon:  “Autism Playgroup of Fort Bend County“. Lost Creek Park, various parks in Fort Bend County.  RSVP required. Susan Garczynski.  susan@susangar.com or call 281-726-2665. Locations vary so call for more information.  NO playgroup in July.

3^rd Saturday of each month, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. North Houston Autism Play Group: For children ages 1-12, including their families. This group will provide social opportunities for children with Autism & their families. This event is free but donations are appreciated.  For more information, contact Janet Cooper, www.lovingheartsfor autism.com or 71962-0474. PLEASE CALL OR EMAIL BEFOREHAND TO VERIFY DATE/TIME. 

3^rd Tuesday of month, 7 pm, Katy Autism Support, St Peters United Methodist Church, Asbury Hall, 20775 Kingsland Blvd, Katy, TX 77450.  For more information, contact catherineautism@sbcglobal.net 

NEW!! Autistic Self Advocacy Network – Houston Chapter forming now.  ASAN chapters aim to bring Autistic individuals together to share ideas, give advice and support, and to create a learning environment for self-advocacy.  Please note that ASAN meetings are run *by* and *for*Autistic people.  For more information:  www.asan.org or contact Shaun Bickley shaun@asanhouston.org  or 832-366-6767.

Miscellaneous Monthly Meetings:

 2^nd Sunday of each month, 6:30-8:30 pm. Katy ADHD Support Group: Attention Deficit Disorders Association- Southern Region (ADDA- SR ) St. Peter’s United Methodist Church, 20775 Kingsland Blvd., Room S201.  For more information contact:  Laura Peddicord, 281-392-6064, laurapeddicord@comcast.net  or visit the ADDA- SR Website at www.adda-sr. org . 

1st Tuesday of Every Month, 10:00 am – 12:00 pm., “Families CAN Support Group”. Meeting held at the Christ the King Evangelical Lutheran Church (2353 Rice Blvd).  For more information, call 713-743-5435 or 713-743-5592.

Last Tuesday of the month – El Grupo de Apoyo meets at the Latino Learning Center, 3522 Polk St., Houston, TX  77003.  More information: Tino Lopez 713-921-3036

3^rd Thursday of each month, 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. (by appointment) “On-Going Application Assistance for anyone who may need SNAP, MEDICAID, or TANF”. UCP offers application assistance to sign up for SNAP (food stamps), MEDICAID (free health insurance) and TANF (temporary assistance with rent, utilities and other monthly expenses).  Contact Christine Ellery at cellery@ucphouston.orgorwww.ucphouston.org713.838.9050 x 332

3^rd Thursday (Every other month), 6:30 – 8:30 pm, The Transition Workgroup by Families CAN Program of UH Parent Education Project.  A forum for sharing information about programs and services that can assist youth with disabilities transition into adult life.  6^th Floor, Shriners Hospital, 6977 Main St., Houston.  Free Pizza, but you need to call so they order enough.  Spanish translation available.  For more information and to RSVP:  713-743-0608 or email MPHALL@UH.EDU. 

4^thThursday of each month, 6:30 – 8:30 p.m.  Sponsored by Parents Supporting Parents – The Woodlands:    Meetings are held at The Woodlands United Methodist Church located at 2200 Lake Woodlands Drive, The Woodlands, TX 77380.  To get more information about a specific monthly meeting, and confirm the time and place of the meeting, contact Barbara Knighton at832-364-6992 or jsk01@hometech-e.com.

4^th Thursday of even numbered months (June 23^rd, August 25^th,October 27th), 9:00 – 10:00 a.m. “Morning Tea Seminar” meets at AAFS Training Room, 9440 Bellaire Blvd. Registration/Check-in at 8:30 – 9:00 a.m. If you wish to RSVP or would like more information, please contact Zeb Mamsa by rsvp@aafstexas.org or by calling 713-600-9400 ext. 127.  

NEW! Last Friday of each Month (except Holiday weekends) (June 24^th, July 29^th, August 26^th, September 30^th, October 28^th, November 18^th, December 16^th), Noon – 1:00 pm – Houston Area Partnership for Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders Parent Support Group.  Bring your lunch.  Meeting at Council on Alcohol and Drugs, 303 Jackson Hill, Houston, 77007.  No Childcare.  For more information:  Grier Patton at grier.patton@gmail.com

Asian American Family Services:  Support Group for Parents of Children with Disabilities.  http://www.aafstexas.org/ For more information, contact Anne Jeong at 713.339.3688 or email: anne.jeong@aafstexas.org

Guide by Your Side: The Educational Resource Center on Deafness (ERCOD) has partnered with TX Hands & Voices to bring the Guide By Your Side program to Texas. Guide By Your Side is a model family support program that embodies the mission of Hands & Voices, which is to provide unbiased support to families with children who are deaf or hard of hearing. We are currently hiring Parent Guide positions throughout the state.  A Parent Guide must be a parent/guardian of a child who is deaf or hard of hearing. The Guide will undergo specialized training in order to provide support to families with children who are deaf or hard of hearing. Contact Debbie Kopp at gbys.ercod@tsd.state.tx.us.  For recruitment flyer, job description and application, go to http://www.tsd.state.tx.us/outreach/family_parent_involvement/training_events.html

Dynavox:

1^st Tuesday of Every Month 9am – 11am: DynaVox Communication Device Training – Free. Presenter: Tara Tarwater. The Woodland Library, Montgomery County Library South, Upstairs Meeting Room, 2101 Lake Robbins Drive, The Woodlands, TX 77380.936-442-7727. Register online:   http://www.dynavoxt ech.com/training/onlocation/ 

2^ndThursday of every month, 6:30 – 8:30 pm:  DynaVox Communication DeviceFree Training.  Presenter: Marlena Nel. United Cerebral Palsy, 4500 Bissonnet, Suite 340, Bellaire, TX  77401. Contact: Tasha Shoffner (713) 838-9050 X320.  Register online: http://www.dynavoxt ech.com/training/onlocation/.

NAMI FAMILY-TO-FAMILY EDUCATION PROGRAM

A series of 12 weekly classes structured to help caregivers understand and support individuals with serious mental illness while maintaining their own well-being. Registration Required. Classes limited to 20 persons.www.namimetrohouston.org  or 713-970-4419. The following class is still open for registration:

September 12^th,2:00– 4:30 p.m., Lamb of God Lutheran Church, 1400 FM1960 East Bypass, Humble, TX 77338. Call Gwen at 281-973-9474 or 713-970-4419. www.namimetrohouston.org

WEST HOUSTON NAMI MONTHLY PROGRAMS:

Third Monday of the month, 7:15 – 9:00 p.m. Public meeting for families coping with mental illness.  Expert speakers provide helpful information including medications, caregiver tips and legal issues. Location:  Memorial Drive Methodist Church, Wesley Hall, 12955 Memorial Drive.  www.namiwesthouston.org

Family Member Support Groups

For those who have a family member with a diagnosis of mental illness.

First & third Sunday of each month,4:00-5:30 p.m., at St. Peter’s United Methodist Church, 20775 Kingsland Blvd.,Room S201, Katy. Contact Pat or Leon Alderfer, 713-467-3764, for more information. For family members of an adult with a mental illness diagnosis.

Second & Fourth Sunday of each month,2:30-4:00 p.m., at Pines Presbyterian Church in Room B, 12751 Kimberley (Town& Country Village area), across from Bendwood Elementary School. Enter the building at back entrance. Contact Vi Napolitano, 281-893-2493, for more information.  For family members of an adult with a mental illness diagnosis.

Second & Fourth Sunday of each month, 2:30-4:00 p.m., at Memorial Drive United Methodist Church, 12955Memorial Drive, Room D126, Contact Wendy Cadmus, 713-252-8549, for more information.  For parents and direct caregivers of children and adolescents with a mental illness diagnosis.

El Segundo y quarto martes de cadames,  7:00-8:30 p.m.,Comunidad Catolica St. Cecilia, 11720 Joan Of Arc, #202, Houston.  Contacto Dora Pozzi, 713-772-5688.  Espanol.

Second & Fourth Sunday of each month,2:30-4:00 p.m., at BridgePoint Bible Church, 13277 Katy Freeway, Houston in the Music Suite. Contact Pat or Leon Alderfer, 713-467-3764, for more information. A faith-based group for family members of an adult with a mental illness diagnosis.

Last Wednesday of each month, 10:00-11:30 a.m., atSt.Cecilia Catholic Community, CANCELLED UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE.

Consumer Support Groups

For individuals with a diagnosis of mental illness interested in working toward recovery.

NAMI Connection is a unique support group for anyone with a serious mental illness who is interested in maintaining their wellness and recovery.  These groups provide a place that offers respect, understanding, encouragement and hope.  These groups are led by trained mentors who are living with a mental illness.  For information please contact Thomas Brink at 713-320-8023

Second & Fourth Wednesday of each month, 7:00-8:30 p.m. Chapelwood United Methodist Church, 11140 Greenbay St, Houston, TX 77024 (near I-10, between Memorial and Piney Point on Greenbay), Room 104.  Go through the double doors under the outside stairs in the back.  Immediately turn left through the doors and down the hall to the end.   Contact Thomas Brink, 713-320-8023, for more information.  

First & Third Saturday of each month, 12:00 noon – 1:30 p.m. Houston Council on Drugs and Alcohol; 303 Jackson Hill Street, Houston 77007 South of Washington Street on Jackson Hill.  Ask the watchman for the room number.

Education Courses

NAMI West Houston offers a variety of free small-group classes for family members and those with mental illness to help them understand and cope with these brain disorders.  Classes are taught by trained volunteers who are themselves graduates of the class, so you know they have been where you are now.  All courses are FREE. Pre-registration is required.

Family-to-Family

The NAMI Family-to-Family Education Program is a 12-week (2½ hours per week) course for families with severe brain disorders (mental illnesses).  This series of 12 weekly classes is structured to help caregivers understand and support individuals with serious mental illness while maintaining their own well-being. Contact Vi Napolitano,(281) 893-2493, philnapolitano@yahoo.com  or Fanny Acosta (281) 221-8254 for the next available class.

NAMI Basics

NAMI Basics is a free education class for parents and caregivers of children/adolescents with a brain disorder.  This includes ADHD, depression, anxiety, bipolar, obsessive compulsive, schizoaffective and schizophrenia.  The class is taught by your peers, parents and caregivers who have a child with a brain disorder.  In the class you will gain an understanding of the different disorders, learn essential communication skills, discover how to create and maintain essential documentation, learn how to deal effectively with the schools and more. Contact Robert Steed, 281-463 7448 or rs_steed@hotmail.com   for the next available class.

Additional Resources and Information

Brazoria County Center for Independent Living has two part-time job positions available.  One is for a computer assistant for our computer lab and the other one is for an independent living specialist that will work with individuals with disabilities.  Send resume & coversheet to Chamane Barrow, BCCIL, 1104 D. East Mulberry, Angleton, TX  77515. 

Special Needs Apps for Kids (SNApps4kids.com) is a community website to support Parents, Teachers, Therapists and Doctors who want to use technology like the Apple iPadTM to help special needs and typical children of all ages and abilities to learn, grow and develop. Call (713) 838-9050 for more information.

Guide by Your Side: The Educational Resource Center on Deafness (ERCOD) has partnered with TX Hands & Voices to bring the Guide by Your Side program to Texas. Guide By Your Side is a model family support program that embodies the mission of Hands & Voices, which is to provide unbiased support to families with children who are deaf or hard of hearing. We are currently hiring Parent Guide positions throughout the state.  A Parent Guide must be a parent/guardian of a child who is deaf or hard of hearing. The Guide will undergo specialized training in order to provide support to families with children who are deaf or hard of hearing. Contact Debbie Kopp at gbys.ercod@tsd.state.tx.us.  For recruitment flyer, job description and application, go to http://www.tsd.state.tx.us/outreach/family_parent_involvement/training_events.html

Texas Council for Developmental Disabilities
Seeks Public Input On State Plan for 2012-2016
Please participate in their survey on Your Community and Leadership Development
http://www.txddc.state.tx.us/resources/publications/state_plan/sp2012-2016/spintro.asp

Driver’s Ed Training for Individuals with ASD/ADHD Social Motion Skills and Houston’s Safeway Driving Centers have combined their expertise to offer a comprehensive driver’s education program specifically designed for high functioning individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) and ADHD. Safeway’s state authorized driving curriculum has been approved and adapted by Social Motion Skills’ education experts to bring ASD/ADHD families the most comprehensive driving program in the country. The result is “Driver’s Ed at Your Speed”. Full information is available at www.socialmotionskills.org

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June 9th -10th, “Planning andImplementing a Successful Inclusion Program for People with Autism” presented by Katy I.S.D. Special Education Department.Presenter: Brenda Smith Myles, Guest Speaker. Registration for communitymembers and parents will begin April 1st. Registration is required. ContactJeanne Coleman, Katy ISD Instructional Officer at 281-396-2610.

June 14th – 16th,”TexasAssistive Technology Network Statewide Conference” Located at 7145West Tidwell Road, Houston, Texas77092. Cost: $75. For registration and other information, visit http://www.texasatconference.net and http://www.texasat.net.

June 24th– 25th, “7th Annual Statewide ParentConference” presented by Texas Parent toParent.Located at Embassy Suites San Marcos, 1001 McCarty Lane, San Marcos, TX78666. For online registration and more information visit www.txp2p.org. Early Bird registration ends April 30^th.

August 4^th,Gulf Coast African American Family Support Conference, HoustonMarriott North, Houston, 77060. For more information and to register online:  https://panetwork.parentsanonymous.org/gctaafsc/ 

August 5-7^th,  National Down Syndrome Congress AnnualConference, Marriot Hill Country Resort, San Antonio,TX.  Includes a Youth & Adultconference, as well as a Brothers & Sisters Conference.  Best Value registration Deadline – June24^th.   For moreinformation and online registration: http://convention.ndsccenter.org/ 

August 13-14^th,Autism NOW Regional Summit, Austin, TX http://autismnow.org/events/ 

August 26^th– 28^th, “Texas Advocates Conference”; OmniHotel, San Antonio.  For moreinformation: http://www.thearcoftexas.org/site/PageServer?pagename=events_annual_conference_texas

Sept. 15 – 16th, “AJourney Through the Autism Spectrum”, with Dr. Paula Kluth(15^th) and Dr. Temple Grandin (16^th); presented bySpectrum Training Systems; Sheraton North Houston, 15700 JFK Blvd,Houston77032.  Conference fees: 2Days $175 Early bird before Aug 1; $205 after; 1 Day $125 Early Bird before Aug1; $145 after.  For moreinformation and to register online: http://www.spectrumtrainingsystemsinc.com/houston.html

September 16-17^th,”Beyond The ARD: Parents Engaged for Positive Change“,Austin Airport Hilton, Austin.  Formore information and to register: http://www.partnerstx.org/LeadershipConference/index.html

October 13^th–15^th, “20^th  AnnualTexas AutismConference”, presented by Education Service Center,Region 2.  Reliant Park ConventionCenter, Houston, TX. http://autism.esc2.net/conference/index.asp

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Need help choosing a summer camp? Here are articles to help you ask the right questions and find a camp that fits your child’s needs plus special needs summer camp directories. http://bit.ly/ eQIFt9

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> series.

shared by Noah Knows! from L. Harris on NIDS

> http://www.ted. com/talks/ deb_roy_the_ birth_of_ a_word.html? utm_source= newslet

> ter_weekly_2011- 03-15

> <http://www.ted. com/talks/ deb_roy_the_ birth_of_ a_word.html? utm_source= newsle
>
> tter_weekly_ 2011-03-15& utm_campaign= newsletter_ weekly&utm_ medium=email>
>
> &utm_campaign= newsletter_ weekly&utm_ medium=email
>
> Here’s the synopsis.
>
> “MIT researcher Deb Roy wanted to understand how his infant son learned
>
> language – so he wired up his house with video cameras to catch every moment
>
> (with exceptions) of his son’s life, then parsed 90,000 hours of home video
>
> to watch “gaaaa” slowly turn into “water.” Astonishing, data-rich research
>
> with deep implication for how we learn.”
>
> It’s fascinating to watch (especially the first 10 minutes and then the last
>
> two – the video is 20 minutes long).
>
> To answer the question “Why were certain words born before others?” he
>
> traced each word his son spoke back to early utterances and what he heard
>
> from his caregivers. What he found was that his caregivers systematically
>
> (and unconsciously) made the language as simple as possible and then slowly
>
> brought in more complexity until the word had been learned.
>
> He also talks about the “amazing feedback loops” that must be in place for
>
> this to happen. Not only was his son learning from the language he was
>
> hearing in his environment, the environment (his caregivers) was learning
>
> from him. He was giving them feedback that told them how to change their
>
> language (scaffold) so he could learn.
>
> When I watched this, I immediately thought about how children with autism
>
> don’t give their parents this needed feedback and look what happens to
>
> language (and other development milestones as well). It’s not that children
>
> with autism can’t learn these necessary milestones, they just need more
>
> scaffolding from their parents.
>