MAR January 2014 - Missouri Autism Report

Autism Report
Missouri
January 2014
Art
Inspired
Dreams
pg. 5
Counterpoint Provides
Respite pg. 8
Order a GIFT subscription to the MAR!
CounterPoint Autism Services
Specializing in individualized behavioral, academic and social challenges
for children, teens and adults with an autism spectrum disorder .
CounterPoint provides a variety of services to families
and individuals from birth - adults with all services provided
by Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBA).
SUPPORT SERVICES
Functional Communication Training
Advocacy
Skill Acquisition Programming
Discrete Trial Training
Staff Training
Community Integration
Supported Living
Transition Services
Social Skills Groups
EARLY CHILDHOOD & OTHER EDUCATION SERVICES AVAILABLE
ww w. th e a r co f the o z a r k s. co m
417.864.7887
Page 2
www.MoAutismReport.com
Letter
from the editor
!
Missouri Autism Report
Dayna Busch
President of
the Missouri
Autism Report
!!
!
Dayton Ault
Editor/President
Journalist and Autism
mom, Dayna Busch is
Editor-in-Chief and
Editorials/
Treasurer
Co-Editor, Dayton Ault,
holds a BA in economics
and an MS in Health
FREE online subscription:
Dayna@MoAutismReport.com
More information:
www.MoAutismReport.com
(417)209-0103
Inside
1. Cover Photo: AIA actors and brothers, Nathan and
Chase Obrey, both with ASD Dx. Story on page 5.
2. MAR Subscription Form
3. Table of contents, Letter from the Editor / MAR
contact info, and Disclaimer
4. Essential Oils & Autism - Dr. Sonia
5. Art Inspired Academy: Reaching Dreams
6. Speech Pathologist Chooses to Homeschool
7. CounterPoint’s Saturday Respite
8. Free Training in St. Charles / Jessica Kingsley Affiliate
9. SWMO Life Skills January Activities
10.-11. Springfield, Branson Area Events
12. St. Louis Area Events
13. St. Louis Arc Family Workshop Series
14. Kansas City Area Events / Jeff City, Columbia Area
Events
15. Announcements / Save the Date
Our Sponsors
1. Pierce Vision Specialists
2. Counterpoint Autism Services
4. Health Quest Physicians Group
6. Homeschool Sponsors: Battlefield Lanes/Event Zone,
Intensive Reading Interventions, Expressions
8. Jessica Kingsley Publishers
9. Bill & Virginia Leffen Center for Autism
11. Forest institute School of Psychology
12. Great Circle Edgewood Campus
13. Just Push Play Web Design / Saint Louis University
14. Robert Jason Grant, Ed.D, LPC,RPT-S
15. Rivendale Institute of Learning, Equi-Librium Therapy
Center, Burrell Autism Center, Victoria Jones, Mary
Kay Consultant
16. Life Skills/Easter Seals Autism Services
!
Disclaimer: The MAR is happy to publish a variety of articles, in response to the requests of our readership and sponsors.
However, not everything we print is necessarily the opinion of the MAR staff, its sponsors or all of its readers. If you have
questions about the content of an article, please use the contact information provided at the end of the article to gain
more insight on the issue. We would also encourage you to ask your health care team about any changes in diet, routine
or therapies, before administering. Thank you for reading and for being an advocate for autism.
www.MoAutismReport.com
Page 3
Essential Oils
and Autism
by Dr. Sonia O’DonnellMcGowin, D.C.
!
Essential oils are concentrated, aromatic liquids, derived
from the seeds, roots, bark, petals and other parts of plants.
They have been revered and used for centuries for their
medicinal and therapeutic benefits. Therapeutic grade
essential oils can be used topically, directly inhaled, infused
into the air or added to bathwater, to address a variety of
health issues. These oils have powerful antioxidant
properties and can promote health on a cellular level.
!
!
Where Can I Get Them?
Essential oils are easily found in health food stores, and
even the “health food” section of some grocery stores.
Personally, I recommend using a company such as Young
Living Essential Oils or another company called doTerra.
Their products are guaranteed to be therapeutic grade and
safe. For more information on these companies, go to
www.youngliving.org and www.doterra.com.
!
Essential oils can be used singularly or in blends,
depending on the outcome you are seeking, and your level
of expertise. Because extracting these oils from their
sources is such a complicated process, their prices can
seem a bit high. Keep in mind that you want oils from a
trusted source that are certified therapeutic grade.
Definitely shop around to get the best price, but always
keep quality and safety first. Remember that these oils are
quite potent, so it typically just takes a couple of drops at a
time, making a vial last across many treatments.
!
!
For attention and focusing issues, an oil called Vetiver can
be extremely beneficial. It has been found to dramatically
help children cope with stress and anxiety, when massaged
into the skin, inhaled or diffused. Clary sage oil is also
effective topically. Lemon or peppermint used in a diffuser
while doing homework, may also increase focus and
positive behaviors.
!
To manage stress and anxiety, there are several oils that
may be helpful. Patchouli, lavender or any citrus blend such
as orange or lemon are usually very effective.
!
If your child is too sensitive to smells to tolerate the scent of
the oils, you may have to get creative! Again, using a
diffuser at night is a great strategy. Applying the oil directly
to the feet, then putting on socks, may create enough
distance to help the child cope. Some parents will even
apply the oil to the feet while the child is asleep!
Sometimes, children discover that the oils are so helpful
that they can overcome the sensory defensiveness they
initially felt. You may also consider using a clay necklace
which will hold the scent for an extended period, then teach
the child to inhale it directly during times of anxiety or when
focus is needed.
!
There is a world of benefit in using essential oils that I
haven’t even mentioned. Do a little research to discover
how this may help your family. As always, if you have
questions, please don’t hesitate to email me at
DrSoniaO@gmail.com.
How Can Essential Oils Help A Person With Autism?
As we know, there are a variety of issues that most people
with autism struggle with. These may include difficulty with
sleep, focusing, and anxiety. Here are some suggestions
that may help each of these areas.
!
To promote healthy sleep, look for an oil that is calming,
such as lavender, ylang ylang, or sandalwood. You can also
find blends such as Serenity. Massage the oil into the soles
of the feet, &/or use a diffuser to mist the oil into the air. You
can also spray the oil lightly onto the pillow case, or place a
few drops into the bathwater.
Page 4
Dr. Sonia O'Donnell-McGowin, D.C., is a chiropractor
currently specializing in treating children and adults with
autism and other disabilities. She is a DAN! / ARI
(Defeat Autism Now! / Autism Research Institute) trained
doctor, offering biomedical treatment at Health Quest
Physicians Group in Jefferson City. She has worked in
the field of autism since 1988, many years for the
Judevine Center for Autism. She lives in Jefferson City
with her husband, son and daughter.
www.MoAutismReport.com
Art Inspired Academy: Reaching Dreams Together by Kelly Shifflet, Abilities First
The campus of Drury University was silent and covered
in snow on December 7th. But inside Clara Thompson Hall
an audience of over 150 people were laughing, singing,
dancing and crying as they were treated to the first
performance of the Art Inspired Academy’s premier
performance. A cast of 13 children and young adults,
performed, with the support of 14 volunteers. The actors
delighted the audience by showing off their singing, dancing
and acting skills, but what brought them to tears was the
fact that 10 of the 13 cast members have developmental
disabilities; not that you could tell by watching them
perform! The actors told a story of two boys traveling
through time to save the world from bullies. Along the way
they met up with dinosaurs, cavemen, Egyptians and even
got a glimpse of Springfield in the future.
The final
production took place after 14 weeks of classes where the
students learned to overcome sensory issues, medical
concerns, physical challenges, communication differences
and attention difficulties to work together as the cast of this
exciting show.
The Art Inspired Academy (AIA) is a program of
Abilities First, the Greene County resource board for
individuals with developmental disabilities. The goal of AIA
is to provide an inclusive experience for individuals with and
without disabilities to participate in creative arts
programming including theater, music, dance and art.
Participants learn to express themselves through artistic
experiences while working on individualized goals to
www.MoAutismReport.com
improve communication, motor skills, social skills, self
control and confidence. AIA held their first classes in July
2013.
Since then more than 70 students have enjoyed
classes in ceramics, paper making, music, painting, crafts
and theatre. Classes include ages 3 through adult and are
suited to individuals of all abilities.
“Even though I watched my sons excitedly attend class
each week and practice their songs at home, I was shocked
at the level of dedication and enjoyment I saw on their faces
during the show. Truly, the volunteers and leaders, gave
their hearts to the participants and this program,” said
Elizabeth Obrey, whose two sons, Nathan and Chase
(cover) were involved in the program from the beginning.
The Art Inspired Academy received training from The
Miracle Project, a unique musical theater program for
children and teens with Autism and other special needs, as
well as their typically developing siblings and peers. This
creative arts enrichment program was featured in the 2009
HBO Emmy award winning documentary “AUTISM: The
Musical. Elaine Hall, the founder of The Miracle Project,
provided training and support to the AIA staff along with the
story and music for the theatrical production.
The Academy is planning a full winter schedule starting
in January which will include classes in photography,
drawing, ceramics, acting and music. For more information
visit www.artinspiredacademy.org, follow us on Facebook or
contact program manager Kelly Shifflet at (417)839-6865 or
Kelly@abilitiesfirst.net.
First Photo: Nathan Obrey performs onstage
Second Photo: Excited cast poses for a photo
Page 5
Speech Pathologist
Chooses to
Homeschool Her
Children
by R. Christi Eads MS CCC SLP
I am a local Speech Language Pathologist who
specializes in severe disabilities and advocacy; my three
children have all be diagnosed with some form of autism.
We work daily to learn how best, to teach our children.
When I worked in the public school setting full time, I had a
lot of uneducated opinions about homeschooling. I can
remember the “socialization” word floating around, and
wondered how these children could possibly get the needed
social interaction, anywhere except public school? This was
years ago,when my oldest two were young and I thought
traditional school settings were the only option.
After my third child was born in 2010, following a
complicated pregnancy, I stayed home full-time to care for
my baby’s special needs. There were feeding difficulties,
followed by gastrointestinal sensitivities, neurological
concerns and the finale; my son started to ‘disappear’. He
was unofficially diagnosed with autism at 8 months by our
local pediatrician and officially diagnosed at 16 months.
We quickly adapted a room in our house to
function as an early intervention therapy room, as well as a
home therapy business.
Soon, more struggles became evident with my
older children. We were seeing one brilliant child fail, and
one child full of life, come home with a very broken little
spirit, afraid to even raise her hand at school to ask a
question. I finally saw it: the cookie cutter of public
education was being firmly pressed on my children, while
our family values were being pushed further away.
Suddenly I was on the other side of the table, fighting for
appropriate education opportunities, rather than the
professional armed with all of the ‘set’ answers.
Our choice to leave the traditional school setting,
was not taken lightly. Research, fear. confusion, and prayer,
consumed us for months. Finally we settled on Classical
Education and Hybrid Homeschooling with a local Christian
academy. My kids now get developmentally appropriate
rigor, to match their intellect, paired with differentiated
down-time with Mom.
Our kids are happy and succeeding in their school
work. We have a diverse team of hand-picked professionals
to help support all of those beautiful abilities. I am blessed
to be in a profession that touches children, and I am happy
to have learned to do that with compassion and empathy. I
am happy to have autism in our lives. My kids made me a
better person. Moms need a little homeschooling from time
to time too, you know. This works for my family, and I am
not the same person who quietly judged too quickly, so
many years ago.
!
!
!!
!
!
!
Our mission is to help families make connections with
other homeschool families in the area and hold monthly
adventures, where our children can experience the
world and friendships while learning together through
planned field trips. We will also be holding monthly
mom meetings to plan and connect.If you’re a
homeschooler and would like to join our newly formed
special needs homeschool co-op, join us on Facebook
at
www.facebook.com/groups/
learningadventuresacademy/
!
Other Homeschool Resources:
• New homeschoolers training: www.shemonline.org or
417-725-8648
• Families for home education * FHERegion6East@gmail.com
417-859-7908 Al and Sheryl Schmidt
• ASD Homeschoolers of Missouri Facebook page, sponsored by
the Missouri Autism Report
This page sponsored by these Homeschool-Friendly businesses Battlefield Lanes/Event Zone - Springfield, MO. - (417)883-1234
IntensiveReadingInterventions.com - (417)496-9848
Expressions by Christi Eads, Springfield, MO - ((417)300-2752
Page 6
www.MoAutismReport.com
CounterPoint’s Saturday Respite Program provides care for individuals with autism
Families of children with autism and
special needs, face staggering demands, in
their daily lives, necessitating a constant
juggling act. High health-care costs can leave
few funds for day care, while many parents
struggle with the idea of leaving their specialneeds children, with strangers.
The goal of Counterpoint’s Saturday Respite
Program, is to provide a break, one Saturday per month,
for families with children, or dependents, on the autism
spectrum. The program provides a consistent and
structured social environment. It gives children choices
and teaches how to act appropriately in social settings
via field trips, picnics, movies, bowling, swimming,
walks, museums, crafts, games, classes and more.
This program serves individuals in the Monett
and Springfield areas. All participants must have a
diagnosis of autism and receive services through the
Department of Mental Health. The program maintains a
1:2 staffing ratio, and currently meets in Monett on the
first Saturday of each month and in Springfield on the
third Saturday of each month. The program is funded
through the Southwest Missouri Autism Project Parent
Advisory Council.
The Saturday Respite Program met for the first
time in Monett on October 5th. After participant and staff
introductions, a scavenger hunt ensued, familiarizing the
participants with the building and each other. The day
continued with art, cooking, physical fitness, to develop
balance and motor skills, cooking, games to enhance
social skills, and activities designed to support sensory
control.. At various times throughout the day, participants
chose self-directed activities which interested them
most. The day was declared a success.
Several openings for participants exist in each
location. Contact Alisa Lowry at 417-868-7237 or Erin
Kinzinger at 417-874-1962 for more information.
Counterpoint is a division of Arc of the Ozarks,
1501 E Pythian St, Springfield, MO.
Participants in
Counterpoint’s first
Respite day, enjoyed
fun learning
activities, while
caregivers received
a much-needed day
off, to do needed
errands, such as
Christmas shopping.
www.MoAutismReport.com
Page 7
Free Training Provided to St. Charles Residents
Behavior Solutions, Inc. will be
conducting workshops, followed by onsite, hands-on training, to teach
strategies for teaching and managing
behaviors in individuals with
Developmental Disabilities. The training
is intended to provide instruction to an
individual’s whole team (parents,
teachers, other staff) to maximize gains
through consistency and optimal
supports.
The training, made possible
by grant funding, will include 10 hours of
workshops, followed by onsite
consultation for each team member
involved. Workshops teach foundations
and strategies of behavior analysis,
while consultants help develop
individualized behavior support plans
for each individual/team during on-site
consultations. Anyone working with an
individual with a developmental
disability, lives in St. Charles County
and is registered with St. Louis
Regional Office (support people do not
have to live in St. Charles; only the
individual does) is invited. Training is
appropriate for all ages and
developmental disabilities but geared
specifically to address behavior
problems.
Workshops will be held at 44
Portwest Ct. St. Charles, MO 63303,
with on-site training to be arranged at
home, school, residential, community,
or wherever support is given. Time is
TBA.
Interested parties are
encouraged to enroll now as space is
limited and will be filled on a first
come first serve basis.
Go
to
www.behsolutions.com to complete
the application or call 636-265-0407.
Buy a Book, Support the MAR
New affiliate, Jessica Kingsley Publishers has a constant stream of books and info available for those learning
about autism. Here’s a few suggestions, and when you order, be sure to use our affiliate link: http://www.jkp.com/
us/affiliates/idevaffiliate.php?id=17
Autism and
Gastrointestinal
Complaints
My Autism
Book
A Child's Guide to
their Autism
Spectrum
Diagnosis
Glòria Durà-Vilà
and Tamar Levi
Hardback: $16.95
What You Need to Know
by Rosemary Kessick
Paperback: $15.95
2009,
ISBN: 978-1-84310-984-6
Children on the autism
spectrum frequently suffer
from gastrointestinal
complaints such as diarrhea, constipation,
abdominal pain, and flatulence, which, if left
untreated, can greatly exacerbate behavioral
symptoms. Autism and Gastrointestinal
Complaints summarizes the symptoms, offers an
accessible explanation of the underlying medical
condition, with practical suggestions to help reduce
the child's suffering. Glossary included.
December 2013,
48pp
ISBN:
978-1-84905-438-6
My Autism Book is a beautifully illustrated picture
book that helps parents to explain an autism
diagnosis to their child in a sensitive, positive and
accurate way. Designed to be read with the child as
a simple introduction to their diagnosis. Written by a
doctor and a children's author, the book is tailored
precisely to the needs and experiences of the child
with ASD ages 5 and up.
http://www.jkp.com/us/affiliates/idevaffiliate.php?id=17
Page 8
www.MoAutismReport.com
SWMO Life Skills January Activities The following events are for referred
clients only, unless listed as Public,
and reservations are required.
To
r e g i s t e r, c a l l ( 8 0 0 ) 4 2 0 - 7 4 1 0 o r
(417)781-3616. To find out if you are
eligible, contact your service
coordinator.
!
BOLIVAR at Polk County Library, 1690
W. Broadway Thurs., Jan. 2 - Social Group, ages
5-11, from 1:30-2:30pm.
Thurs., Jan. 2-Adult Social Group,
ages 17-up, at 2:30-3:30pm.
Wed., Jan. 15- Adult Cooking Group,
ages 17 & up, 11am-1pm. Please
mention any special dietary needs
when calling to RSVP.
!
CLINTON at First Baptist Church, 209
E. Jefferson St. Wed., Jan. 8 - Social Groups • Adults, 2:30-4 pm • Elementary ages, 4:30-5:30 pm • Jr. High & High School ages, 6-7 pm
!
JOPLIN at Joplin office, 1211 S.
Illinois.
Thurs., Jan. 9 - Adolescent Art
Group, from 4:30-5:30pm
www.MoAutismReport.com
Mon., Jan 13 - Adult Cooking Group
from 11am-1pm. Please mention
special dietary needs when you RSVP.
Mon., Jan. 13-Adolescent Cooking
Group
from
5-6:30pm.
Please
mention special dietary needs when
you RSVP.
Thurs., Jan. 16 - Sibling Workshop
(Sib-Shop) 4:30-5:30pm
Thurs. Jan 30 - Social Groups
• Adults 11am-1pm
• Teens 4-6pm
Thurs. & Fri., Jan. 2 & 3 - Respite
Days for all ages, 9am-4pm !
MOUNTAIN GROVE at First Baptist
Church, 807 E 17th St. Mon., Jan. 13-Family Connections
Meeting for all ages, from 6-7:30pm.
during Family Connections meeting,
social groups will be offered for ages
14-adult.
!
NEVADA at On My Own Center for
Independent Living, 425 E. Highland
Wed., Jan. 15 - Social Groups • Adults 2:30-4pm
• Elementary, 4:30-5:30pm
• Jr. High & High School, 6-7pm
!
SPRINGFIELD at Springfield office,
1740 S. Glenstone, Suite S
Thurs. Jan. 9 - Parent’s Night Out Respite for ages 12-under, from
57pm.
Mon., Jan. 13- Teen Holiday Party
ages 13-17, 6-7pm, Optional $5 gift
exchange.
Thurs., Jan. 16 - Adult Social Group,
11am-1pm, Prepare and eat a meal
using basic cooking skills. Please
mention any special dietary needs
when calling to RSVP.
Thurs., Jan. 23 - Sibling Workshop
(Sib-Shop), for ages 7-14, from
5:30-6:30pm
!
URBANA at First Baptist, 207 w.
Broadway St.
Thurs., Jan. 2-Social Group, all ages
from 10:30-11:30am
!
To request respite services at the
Springfield office for January and
February, please call 417-890-1399 with
the dates and times of interest and your
name will be placed on our respite list. We
will meet as many needs as possible with
our limited number of staff. To request
respite services in our Joplin office,
please call (417)781-3616.
Page 9
Springfield, Branson and Surrounding Area Events Wednesdays, January
1-29
Single Mom’s Support Group from
6:15-7:30pm at South Haven Baptist
Church. Most moms attending have
children with special needs. Respite
provided. To RSVP contact Kathy
Meyer at (417)496-2773 or
www.thecaringpeople.org
Wednesday, January 1
SCIL Support Group for Parents of
Youth with Disabilities (1st Wed.)
from 6-7pm at Southwest Center for
Independent Living, 2864 S. Nettleton
Ave. Cost is FREE, refreshments
included. RSVP: tcox@swcil.org or
call (800)676-7245.
Thursday, January 2
Families4Families meeting (1st
Thurs.) at 6:30 pm, Tom Watkins
Nbhd. Bldg., 2100 W. High St.
Contact billiespall_1@yahoo.com or
Lynn (417)987-0811.
!
Tri-Lakes People First Chapter Mtg.
(1st Thurs.) at 6pm, Developmental
Connections office 1533 E. State
H w y. 7 6 , B r a n s o n . F o r i n f o ,
(417)335-4135
Branson Family Connections
Parent Support Mtg. (1st Thurs.) at
7pm at Developmental Connections
office, 1533 E. Sta. Hwy. 76,
Branson. For more info call
(417)335-4135.
Tuesdays, January 7-28
Troop 2 meetings for Boy Scouts of
America, every Tues. at 6:30-8 pm at
Green Valley State School. Contact
Te d d y H e a t o n , ( 4 1 7 ) 8 8 3 - 6 6 8 0
teddy.heaton@wfadvisors.com
www.ozarktroop2.com
Thursday, January 9
Autism 101: Parent training
presented by psychologist, Susie
Henderson, for families new to the
area, or newly diagnosed with ASD.
This training will cover the new
diagnostic criteria used for diagnosing
Autism and will help give parents a
framework for diagnosis and
treatment. Held from 10 a.m. to 12:30
p.m. in Room 1 at the Burrell Autism
Center, 1300 E Bradford Parkway,
Springfield, MO 65804. For more info
Page 10
or to reserve your spot, contact
Melissa Davenport at (417)761-5333.
Saturday, January 11
People First of Springfield monthly
meeting (2nd Sat.) 11am - 12pm. At
Easy Living Office, 3061 S. Fort Ave.,
Suite C., Spfd. For more information
contact Marisa Clary at
(417)881-8033 x307 or
marclary@aol.com.
!
S WA N ( S o u t h W e s t M i s s o u r i
Autism Network) meeting Parent
Power Panel, (2nd Sat.) New time:
3:30-5 pm. New location: Arc of the
Ozarks, 1501 E. Pythian. Please
RSVP on SWAN’s website:
w w w. s w m o a u t i s m n e t w o r k . o r g .
Contact phone number for Elizabeth
Obrey at the Arc, 864-7887. Watch
SWAN’s Facebook Page
(www.facebook.com/SWMOAutism)
for additional events.
!
Free Respite Night for families with
children with special needs in the
Bolivar, MO area, (2nd Sat.) from
5-8:30 pm. For more info, contact
(417)773-6326 or www.fbcbolivar.org/
recess, Reserve spot one week in
advance please.
Tuesday, January 14
SWMO Parent Advisory Committee
(PAC) Meeting (2nd Tues.) at 6:30
a.m. Location TBA. For more info go
to http://www.mo.gov/meetings. For
meeting locations, call Judy
(417)895-7446, Kandice
(417)629-3237 or Mike
(417)621-5362. To be on email
distribution list, contact
mopfer@insphereis.com.
Saturday, January 18
New!Intensive Reading
Interventions Free workshop on
learning problems, how to identify
them and where to get help. Home
help tips included. Meeting at
Lutheran Family & Children Services
Bldg. 2130 N. Glenstone Ave.,
Springfield. Meeting from 9am-Noon.
Call (417)496-9848 to register.
Seating is limited.
S.C.A.N. of Lebanon
All Activities will be held at the NEW
SCAN Education & Activity Center,
679 W. Elm, Suite 5 Lebanon, unless
otherwise specified. Membership
$25. All events are free or reduced for
members. Further info/RSVP on
F a c e b o o k o r c o n t a c t Te r r y
F a u s t ( 4 1 7 ) 9 9 1 - 2 0 2 9
scan4kids@yahoo.com. Order
newsletter at info@scan4kids.com
Friday, January 10
MPACT training “Writing Measurable
IEP Goals” from 6-8pm. No Respite
available.
Saturday, January 18
Parent’s Night Out from 6-9pm.
Members $4, non-members $8 per
child. Food, Fun and Activities. RSVP.
Music Therapy at 10am. Members
on sliding scale, non-members $20
per child.
Monday, January 27
SCAN of Lebanon support meeting
from 6:30-8pm. Childcare at
StringBeans, 511 Harrison, Lebanon,
$1 per child or non-perishable food
item. Non-members $3 per child..
RSVP on Facebook.
Tuesdays & Thursdays
Mommy & Me classes from
9:30-10:30am for ages 6mo-6yr.
Inclusion class for all abilities; arts,
crafts, dance & exercise. $5 for nonmembers.
Joplin Area Events
Tuesday, January 7
Ozark Center for Autism Support Group, Joplin (1st Tues.) 6-8pm, 3230 S.
Wisconsin. Free and open to the public. For info, contact Heather
(417)347-7850.
www.MoAutismReport.com
Springfield, Branson and Surrounding Area Events
Tuesday, January 21
After the Diagnosis.Families,
educators & caregivers in and
around Dallas County are invited.
Info and RSVP to Mary
(417)343-0612
or
dallascountyautismteam@gmail.com
.
Enabled Service at Central
Assembly of God chapel on the east
side of church, 1301 N. Booneville.
(3rd Tues.). Contact Ethel Campbell
at
(417)343-9027
or
Dallas County Support Group
m e e t i n g ( 3 r d Tu e s . ) 6 p m a t
O’Bannon Bank, 1347 S. Ash St.,
Bolivar, MO. This month Judevine
will present Autism 101: What to do
info@enabled2serve.org
Monday, January 27
MO Family to Family Network
Southwest quarterly meeting,
at
Greene County Library Center on S.
Campbell,
Springfield.
Representatives from each of the 12
counties served, are encouraged to
attend all four quarterly meetings. By
doing so, you will be kept abreast as
to what is happening on both the
state and local level.
Friday, January 31
Through the Roof worship
services for individuals with
disabilities and their families (LAST
Friday) location TBA. For more info,
watch
website
ttrspringfield@gmail.com or call
(417)894-7844.
!
!
BOWLING!
Aurora!
The Strike Zone!
Branson!
Woodland Lanes!
Nixa!
Century Lanes !
!
WATER AEROBICS!
Monett!
Monett YMCA !
!
BASKETBALL!
Springfield!
Boys & Girls Club!
Nixa!
Nixa Jr High School!
Branson!
Ozark Mountain YMCA !
!
SWIMMING!
Springfield and Branson!
Locations TBA
Now Accepting Applications for Fall 2014
BA
MSA
BCB
A®
BA®
BCa
Our programs offer small class
sizes and real world training that
prepare you to work in the field.
s-ASTEROF3CIENCEIN!PPLIED"EHAVIOR!NALYSIS
s"OARD#ERTIFIED"EHAVIOR!NALYST¤#ERTIFICATE
s"OARD#ERTIFIED!SSISTANT"EHAVIOR!NALYST¤#ERTIFICATE
Learn more or apply today!
Forest.EDU 1.800.424.7793
!
www.championathletes.org
sqmiles@championathletes.org
(417)890-1599
www.MoAutismReport.com
Page 11
St. Louis and Surrounding Area Events
Thursday, January 2
Saturday, January 4
Sunday, January 26
Parent Support Group (1st Thurs)
meets at Giant Steps of St. Louis,
7281 Sarah St. Call (314)932-1051
for more info.
ICAA Monthly Autism Support
Meeting (1st Sat.) at 6pm NEW
LOCATION TBA, St. Louis. Families
welcome. Refreshments served. For
more info, go to www.icaaonline.org
or info@icaaonline.org.
ICAA Meet-Up (last Sun.) at the St.
Louis Animeggroll Store at 9254
Watson, St. Louis, MO. FREE
Starbucks served. ASD individuals
and families are invited to attend.
!
!
Thursdays, January 2-30
ICAA Radio at 6:30 PM Thursdays.
Tune in for autism/disability/education
news, community outreach, action
alerts, and resources.
www.icaaonline.org
!
Capable Kids and Families
Playgroup, 10-11:30am (1st Friday &
3rd Sat.) Open to any families with
young children, ages birth - six and
sibs. For more info, contact Julia at
capablekids@slarc.org or
(314)817-2247
Friday, January 31
L i f e S k i l l s / To u c h p o i n t P a r e n t
Support Group (2nd Sat.) 10176
Corporate Square Dr., Suite 150, St.
Louis Parents of adults from
9:30-10:30am, Parents of children
from 10:30am-12noon.
Teens with Aspergers, (last Fri.) at
6-8:30pm at Masonry Centre, 1429 S.
Big Bend Boulevard, Richmond
Heights. For more info, go to
sspurlock@slarc.org or call
(314)817-2222
Saturday, January 18
Friday Family Fun Nights (last Fri.),
for all family members, all ages, all
abilities. No Cost, Donations
accepted, concession stand
available.For more info, go to
sspurlock@slarc.org or call
(314)817-2222
!
Friday, January 3 &
Saturday, January 18
Saturday, January 11
!
Aspergers Mom’s Group, for moms
of child with Asperger’s meets from,
9-11am (3rd Sat) at St. Louis Arc
Family Center, 1177 N. Warson Rd.,
Saint Louis, MO. Contact
(314)817-2222
or
sspurlock@slarc.org
!
Residential treatment for your
child or teen with autism
Great Circle’s residential treatment program for children with autism provides
and trained staff specialize in 24/7 care. Wrap-around services include an oncampus education program fully accredited by ISACS and specialized training in life
skills and hygiene.
rooms and sensory diets
System
education
education
and
music therapies
Great Circle – Edgewood Campus
330 N. Gore Avenue, St. Louis, MO 63119
(314) 919-4700
www.great-circle.org
Page 12
www.MoAutismReport.com
St. Louis Arc Family Workshop Series
Unless otherwise noted, workshops are free and take place at the
St. Louis Arc Centene Family Center (1177 N. Warson Rd., St.
Louis, MO 63132). Childcare and respite care are not provided
unless specifically noted in the workshop description. To
register, go to www.slarc.org and click on “View Our Calendar,”
email Brianne Smith at bsmith@slarc.org, or call 314-817-2216.
ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED.
Wednesday, January 8 - 6:30 - 8:00 pm
SUCCEED Program Update - a post-secondary program for
people with intellectual and developmental disabilities ages 18-25.
Program participants can earn a Chancellor’s Certificate by
completing the two year residential program. Applications for the
second class of students are due on January 31, 2014. This
workshop is designed for potential students and their families.
Includes informal Q & A. Application forms will also be reviewed.
Tuesday, January 14 - 6:30 - 8:00 pm
Laugh for the Health of it! - Research has shown that laughter of
10 minutes or more is good for your health. Laughter Yoga was
developed as a way to achieve some of the physical and
psychological benefits of laughter. You will learn simple playful
laughter and deep breathing exercises adapted from yoga.
Participants should dress comfortably. Yoga mats are optional and
exercises may be done in a chair from a seated position.
laughter can be adapted for all abilities.
Yoga
Friday, January 17 - 9:00 am-3:30 pm
IDEA Boot Camp - A multi-topic training that includes Special
Education Law, Understanding the Individualized Education
Program Process, and Disagreement Resolution Processes. There
will be a one-hour break for lunch on your own.
Tuesday, January 21 - 6:30 - 8:00 pm
Tension and Trauma Releasing Exercises (TRE) - TRE is being
used as an effective tool for releasing chronic traumatic stress,
physical tension, and emotional trauma. The six exercises are a
simple form of stretching and are used to gently trigger voluntary
muscle tremors. This workshop will include audience participation
so be sure to dress in loose, comfortable clothes and bring a mat if
you have one.
Wednesday, January 22 - 6:30 - 8:30 pm
Adult Day Options - Come learn about adult day service options,
funding sources, and how to determine the best fit for your family
member. This workshop is geared toward individuals caring for an
older transitioning teen or adult with a developmental disability.
Tuesday, January 28 - 6:30
- 8:30 pm
Tools of Choice -Tools of
Choice is a curriculum that
anyone can use to create an
environment for learning and
maintaining positive behavior. It
includes applying the
philosophy and concepts from
Positive Behavior Supports and
Person Centered Strategies in
everyday situations, learning to
develop positive relationships
with others, learning to prevent
problem situations, de-escalate
most behavioral crisis
situations, help someone in
emotional distress, and
learning to encourage desirable
behaviors. This two- hour
overview will be followed by a
6-week workshop series in the
spring (exact dates are still to
be determined).
Interested in Applied Behavior Analysis?
Saint Louis University offers three ABA program options:
+ M.S. in applied behavior analysis
+ M.S.W. with applied behavior analysis concentration
+ Post-Master’s Certificate in applied behavior analysis
SLU-ABA graduates have a BCBA pass rate higher than the national average.
To learn more, visit aba.slu.edu.
www.MoAutismReport.com
Page 13
Kansas City and Surrounding Area Events Monday, January 6
Tuesday, January 14
LEE'S SUMMIT - MOAFAA meeting
(Missouri Advocates for Families
Affected by Autism) (1st Mon.) 7pm at
Legacy Christian Church of Lee's
Summit, 2150 East Langsford, Lee's
Summit, MO Phone: (816)554-3017
Cass ASD Support Group (2nd
Tues.) 6-8pm, Casco Area Workshop,
1800 Vine, Harrisonville, MO.
Tuesday, January 7
Moms Brunch Support Group for
any mom or caregiver with a child on
the spectrum. We meet once a month
for friendship and support at Corner
Cafe in Liberty, MO. at 10am. RSVPdklarlund@autism-works.org
!
Saturday, January 11
Creative Arts & Crafts Club, 10–
11:30am at Autism Works, 915 E. H
Hwy., Liberty, MO. Individuals with
high functioning autism/Aspergers
enjoy using different mediums such
as drawing, painting, sculpting, to
create art projects guided by an
instructor. Games & snacks are also
provided. Class size is limited. Ages5-19 (projects appropriate for all ages
and skill levels) Cost: $15 RSVP to
Dessarey Klarlund dklarlund@autismworks.org
Wednesday, January 15
Parents Night Out Support group for
moms, dads and caregivers with kids
of all ages on the spectrum. We meet
once a month and enjoy great food,
lots of laughter, conversation, support
and friendship! Meet at Conrad’s
Restaurant & Alehouse in Liberty,
MO. at 6pm.
RSVP to
dklarlund@autism-works.org
Thursday, January 16
Circle of Friends support group for
teens with high functioning autism/
asperger’s. Learn social skills, with
added support to deal with issues like
friendships, bullying, coping with
stress and problem solving. Meeting
from 7-8pm. Cost is $10. RSVP to
dklarlund@autism-works.org
!
Autism Society Support Group for
Wyandotte County (3rd Thurs.) from
6-8pm at the KC Early Childhood
Center, 1708 N. 55th St. Info at:
www.asaheartland.org
Sunday, January 26
Young Adults Art Club (4th Sun.)
from 2-3:30pm at KCAI campus, 4415
W a r w i c k B l v d . , K a n s a s C i t y.
Admission is free. Ages 15-25.
Theresa Krahenbuhl at
(816)519-9321
Thursday, January 30
Northwest Autism Spectrum
Family Support Group (last Thurs.)
7-8pm at Christ Episcopal Church,
207 N 7th St., St. Joseph, MO.
Contact Jamie at (816)390-8545 or
Robin at (816)792-2823
!
TBA
Young Adults Social Connection
group for young adults, with ASD,
ages 18+ to connect. Participants
should require minimal supervision
and be able to participate
independently. Parents and caregivers
are welcome to attend and assist their
young adult if needed. Visit
www.autism-works.org for dates.
Jefferson City and Columbia Area Events
Thursdays, January 2-30
!
Special Needs Ice Skating Program, 7-7:30pm at
Washington Park Ice Arena, 711 Kansas St., Jefferson City,
M O . To r e g i s t e r c o n t a c t V i c t o r i a a t
vrsd49@mail.missouri.edu.
Sundays, January 5-26
Adapted Gymnastics at Tiger Performance Complex,
Champions Drive on MU campus, Columbia. 3-9yo. meet
4-5pm. 10-18yo meet 5-6pm. Cost per child is $20 per
semester. Contact Jeff Krug for more info (573)882-3561
krugi@health.missouri.edu.
Thursday, January 30
Cole County Autism Support Group, (last Thurs.) 6:30
pm at The Ability Center 601 E. High St., Jefferson City. For
info, call (573)634-4555.
!
Page 14
www.MoAutismReport.com
Announcements!
Save The Date!
Award Nominations Open
The Governor ’s Council on
Disability’s 22nd Annual Inclusion Award
program recognizes and honors a Missouri
resident, organization or business that
illustrates excellence in leadership for best
inclusion practices. Innovative universal
design and assistive technology concepts that
incorporate people with disabilities also may
be submitted. For more information and to
submit a nomination, go to http://
disability.mo.gov/gcd/pdf/
2013InclusionAwardsNominationForm.pdf
In addition, the Governor’s Council
on Disability announces its first annual Youth
Leadership Award. This award is to recognize
an outstanding Missouri youth (age 18-30)
with a disability that has demonstrated
exemplary leadership by making a difference
Wednesday, February
5
in their community. A youth with disability
shall meet one or more of these criteria for
the award: be engaged in activities that
improve the quality of life of people with
disabilities in Missouri or demonstrate social
activism that improves their community in
Missouri. For more information and to submit
a nomination, go to http://disability.mo.gov/
g
c
d
/
p
d
f
/
2013AnnualYouthLeadershipAwardForm.pdf.
The deadline for submitting
nominations for either award is January 2,
2013. Award presentations will be at the
Power Up conference held in April 2014 in
Osage Beach.
Reader Tip -Two great websites: Governor's Council on Disability: http://
disability.mo.gov/gcd
*Look on the right side of the page under What's New "New
Transition Resource Website" & Meet the Future Face of Employment: http://mn.gov/
mnddc/asd-employment/index.html
www.MoAutismReport.com
Spectrum Theatre Ensemble &
University of Missouri
Department of Theatre
presents a concert reading of: of
The NerveCracker Suite by
Paula Carter, 7:30 pm at Corner
Playhouse, University of
Missouri, Columbia. For more
info,
,
contact
carterpm@health.missouri.edu.
!
Saturday, February 15
Intensive
Reading
Interventions Free workshop on
learning problems, how to
identify them and where to get
help. Home help tips included.
Meeting at Lutheran Family &
Children Services Bldg. 2130 N.
Glenstone Ave., Springfield.
Meeting from 9am-Noon. Call
( 4 1 7 ) 4 9 6 - 9 8 4 8 t o r e g i s t e r.
Seating is limited.
Page 15
Autism
Services
LIFE SKILLS | TOUCHPOINT AUTISM
SERVICES AFFILIATES WITH EASTER SEALS
On September 1, 2013 Life Skills announced its affiliation
with Easter Seals.
nity
Commu
g
in
Liv
ent
Employm
Services
“Life Skills and TouchPoint share a
grassroots legacy. Each was founded by
parents of children with disabilities with
the goal of creating a better future. By
affiliating with Easter Seals, our team
will have access to deep resources in
programming, advocacy, fundraising
and marketing - all of which will be
leveraged to benefit
those we serve.”
Wendy Sullivan
Chief Executive Officer
Life Skills
The local agency which helps individuals with
developmental disabilities, including autism, learn, live,
work and participate in the community will begin using
the Easter Seals name and logo. Easter Seals | Life Skills
will retain its statewide operations and will continue to be
governed by a local board of directors. In addition, any
fundraising will stay local to the communities where the
funds are raised and which the agency serves.
“This affiliation gives us access to best practices in the
industry, advocacy at the federal level, and the ability to
raise much-needed funding for services leveraged with
Life Skills’ strengths. This also will give us the opportunity to
both improve and expand our services to individuals with
developmental disabilities in the communities we serve,”
said Life Skills CEO Wendy Sullivan.
Life Skills and TouchPoint Autism Services merged in
2012. The affiliation with Easter Seals is the next step in
reaching its strategic goals to help more individuals with
developmental disabilities across Missouri.
Life Skills currently employs more than 1,300 statewide, and
has an operating budget of approximately $40 million. Life
Skills serves more than 4,200 individuals in Missouri through
three specific divisions: Community Living, Employment
Services and Autism Services.
TO LEARN MORE ABOUT THE SERVICES OFFERED VISIT WWW.LIFESKILLS-MO.ORG