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Post by LimitedRecourse on Nov 12, 2011 14:28:17 GMT -5
After Her TBI
1.7 million people sustain a traumatic brain injury (TBI) each year, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Few are as widely publicized as the injury sustained January 8, 2011 by Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords. She and her husband have documented her rehabilitation and are raising awareness about TBI and the need others have for services like those which have been crucial in Giffords‘ recovery.
Their first public interview since the injury will air Monday, November 14th at 9pm CT on ABC. Following that, their joint memoir, “Gabby: A Story of Courage and Hope,” will be on shelves Tuesday, Nov 15th.
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Nov 14, 2011 15:18:29 GMT -5
Disability and Cultural Diversity Conference Date: Tuesday, November 15, 2011 8:30 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. This conference will define multicultural awareness and focus on the values, principles, attitudes, and policies impacting the delivery of disability services to culturally diverse individuals and their families. Content will highlight the cultural perspectives of refugee, immigrant, rural and African- American populations. Location: Lipscomb University One University Park Drive Ezell Building, Room 363 Nashville, Tennessee Pre-registration is required at: www.kc.vanderbilt.edu/registration No registration available day of conference Fees: $40. Fees include lunch and workshop materials. For more information, contact: Tracy Pendergrass at (615) 875-5084 Or Tracy.pendergrass@vanderbilt.edu |
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Nov 14, 2011 15:19:00 GMT -5
2012 TN Disability MegaConference Dates
The 2012 MegaConference will be held May 31 – June 1, 2012. This is following Memorial Day Monday. The Conference will be at the Airport Marriott again next year.
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Nov 14, 2011 15:23:24 GMT -5
The Volunteer Advocacy Project The Vanderbilt Kennedy Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities Connections for Disability and Employment-University of Tennessee LifeLine East Tennessee State University Support and Training for Exceptional Parents (STEP) Susan Gray School The Arc of Davidson County The Arc of the Mid-South The Arc of Williamson County The University of Tennessee-Boling Center The University of Tennessee at Martin West Tennessee Healthcare Spring 2012 Advocacy Project Application kc.vanderbilt.edu/kennedy/vap/The purpose of this project is to train volunteer advocates to provide instrumental and affective support to parents of children with disabilities. In this training, participants will learn more about special education law and advocacy strategies. At the end of the training, each participant will shadow an advocate who is working with a family. Following graduation from the program, you will be linked with a family of a child with a disability. Each volunteer advocate is expected to work with, at least, four families, at the discretion of The Arc and STEP. This is a comprehensive 6-week training to be held in the spring of 2012 (January 12th, January 19th, January 26th, February 2nd, February 9th, February 16th, February 23rd, March 1st, March 8th, March 15th, and March 22nd). Each training session will last 3 hours (beginning at 5:30PM (CST) and ending at 8:30PM (CST) and, in Eastern Tennessee, the training begins at 6:30PM (EST) and ends at 9:30PM, (EST)). The training will include a binder of materials including passages from: the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, No Child Left Behind, and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act. Additionally, the participants will be given copies of each training session’s powerpoints along with relevant materials. For each training session, the participant will be expected to read pertinent materials. The training will be held on the Vanderbilt campus in The Vanderbilt Kennedy Center. The training will also be video-conferenced to other sites across the state. Furthermore, there is a $30 charge to cover the cost of materials for the training. We look forward to receiving your application to the Advocacy Project. You may e-mail your application to meghan.m.burke@vanderbilt.edu. The application is due by January 1st, 2012. If we receive applications, which outnumber the available spots, we will encourage those not participating in this training session to attend a future training session. Thank you, Meghan Burke meghan.m.burke@vanderbilt.edu |
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Nov 14, 2011 15:24:35 GMT -5
The Volunteer Advocacy Project
Meghan Burke
Meghan.m.burke@vanderbilt.edu
(615) 585-1420
Spring 2012 Advocacy Project Application
Name:________________________________________________________________________
Address:______________________________________________________________________
City:_________________State:_______ County:______________ Zip:__________________
Day Phone:________________________ Evening Phone:_____________________________
E-mail:_______________________________________________________________________
Present Occupation:____________________________________________________________
Please list your children’s names and ages:________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
Which area of the state would you like to attend the sessions?
East (Johnson City): _________
East (Chattanooga): __________
Middle (Nashville):_________
Middle (Lewisburg):____________
Middle (Cookeville):____________
Middle (Clarksville):____________
West (Memphis):______________
Please answer all of the following questions to the best of your ability.
1. What interests you about becoming an advocate for families of children with disabilities? Why do you want to participate in this project?
______________________________________________________________________________
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2. What is your personal connection to the disability field?
______________________________________________________________________________
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3. Have you had any experience advocating for families of children with disabilities?
______________________________________________________________________________
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4. What do you think are necessary attributes to be a successful advocate?
______________________________________________________________________________
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5. How would you describe yourself and your family?
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6.What would you like to get out of participating in this project? How do you think you will apply the skills and knowledge you will have gained from this project?
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
7.How did you learn about this Advocacy Project?
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
Letter of Commitment
The Advocacy Project lasts for 12 weeks (12 sessions) and requires participation at each session. The rigor of this curriculum requires energy and commitment from its participants. Along with these 12 sessions, the participants will shadow an advocate from The Arc or STEP. After completing this training, each participant will work as a volunteer advocate with, at least, four families. The Arc or STEP will link the volunteer advocate with these families. Please mark your responses to the following questions.
1. I will attend all of the 12 sessions.
Yes____ No____
2. I will be on time to all of the sessions.
Yes____ No____
3. I will complete all of the homework and readings prior to the training session.
Yes____ No____
4. I will participate on the Project website.
Yes____ No____
5. I will shadow an advocate.
Yes____ No____
6. Under the guidance of The Arc and STEP, I will voluntarily serve as an advocate for, at least, four families.
Yes____ No____
7. I will attend at least one STEP workshop (3 hours) each year to stay current on Special Education Law. (Workshops are Free)
Yes____ No____
I commit to all of these requirements.
Name
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Nov 14, 2011 15:32:25 GMT -5
Deaf Chat-Chattanooga: Sat., Nov. 19 - 10:00 am - 12:00 PM
Many of you know Lisa Fielder. She co-founded Say It In Sign with us, and she is the previous director. Her life changed forever in Feb. 2010 when her husband was suddenly attacked by acute Pancreatitis. The doctors said he would not live, yet he is alive today. Lisa has written a book telling her amazing story. Her new book, "Why Us God?," has been published and just released!
On Saturday, November 19th, Lisa will be at Deaf Chat-Chattanooga for a "Book Signing." She will have copies of her new book for sale, and will be glad to sign it for you. The cost is only $15 (cash, check, credit or debit), and a portion of each book sold will be donated to the National Pancreatitis Foundation to help find a cure for this disease. It you cannot attend, but would like a book, you may purchase one through the mail. Send $20 ($15 + $5 S&H) to Say It In Sign: P.O. Box 443 Harrison, TN 37341-0443
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Nov 14, 2011 15:35:07 GMT -5
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Nov 15, 2011 14:50:17 GMT -5
I wanted to let you know that we have locations for all 3 TABS Third Thursday events for this month! Please see below for the location and contact info for the coordinator. If you could send a quick email to the coordinator to let them know you plan to make it, that would ensure there is plenty of space at the table at the specific restaurant!
Memphis: 6:00 at Panera Bread in Germantown (7850 Poplar Avenue, Suite 2); Nikki Trim is the coordinator, sshawk_85@yahoo.com
Nashville: 6:00 at Mafiaoza's Pizzeria & Neighborhood Pub (2400 12th Avenue South); Ashley Coulter is the coordinator, ashley.coulter@vanderbilt.edu
Knoxville: 6:00 at Aubrey's (Northshore Drive and Papermill Road), Carol Robbins is the coordinator, robbinc@tsd.12.tn.us
And of course, feel free to just show up if you haven't had a chance to let the coordinator know you are coming - we would love to have you! And it is perfectly fine if you are running a little late - we all know how after-work traffic goes! Don't forget that you're significant other is welcome - we always talk about the sib-in-law issues, so I think it is important that they have the option to attend as well!
Ashley F. Coulter
Sibling Project Coordinator
Vanderbilt Kennedy Center
230 Appleton Place
PMB 40
Nashville, TN 37203
Phone: 615.343.0545
ashley.coulter@vanderbilt.edu
kc.vanderbilt.edu
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Nov 15, 2011 14:54:18 GMT -5
FROM IEP TO COLLEGE: ARE YOU READY? A training for transition to college for students with Asperger Syndrome, high functioning autism, learning disabilities and other processing conditions. +Are you the parent of a student with an "Invisible" learning difference? +Are you an individual who only recently began to understand you have an invisible difference, and you are interested in returning to college to try again? +Are you the parent of a student between sixth grade through high school? If you answered "yes" to any of the questions above, then this is the conference for you! Come hear our three, nationally recognized speakers on seeking college for students with autism spectrum differences. This conference will be of value to parents of students with NLD, Learning disabilities and ADHD as well! Presentations & Speakers ---Is College for Me? presented by Marc Ellison of Marshall University ---Choosing the Best Program for After High School presented by Jane Thierfeld Brown of the University of Connecticut --- Preparing for & Transitioning to Higher Education for a Student with ASD: A Parent’s Perspective presented by Ann Palmer of University of North Carolina -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Saturday, December 3 - 8:30 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. Christ United Methodist Church 508 Franklin Road Franklin, TN 37069-8200 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Admission is $75 per person, $35 for people with autism spectrum and similar conditions. Price includes bagel, juice, coffee, yogurt breakfast and catered lunch of chicken salad, salsa, chips, fruit and dessert. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Please visit www.centerforunderstanding.net to download the full brochure and registration form. Conference Registration and Payment Deadline: Monday, November 28 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Private Family Consultations Join us the following day, Sunday, December 4, for Private Family Consultations. Appointments can be made for consultations between 9:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. Consultations are $50 per hour (payable prior to appointment – we will not bill for appointments) at the Center for Understanding office: 120 Holiday Ct. #4, Franklin, TN 37067 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Presented with support from the disAbilities Resource Center of Williamson County and the Tennessee Council on Developmental Disabilities |
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Nov 15, 2011 14:55:34 GMT -5
DSAMT Mom's Night Out
Moms of individuals with Down syndrome are invited to attend a special night out at Las Palmas Restaurant (1905 Hayes Street, off of West End & 19th) on Thursday, November 17 at 6:00pm.
Come enjoy a meal and bond with other mothers through shared experiences and stories. DSAMT will buy dinner (you're on your own for drinks). We'll be on the enclosed patio.
Please let us know by Wednesday, November 16 if you plan to attend so that we can be sure to reserve enough seating - 615-386-9002 or RSVP to the facebook event.
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Nov 15, 2011 14:56:41 GMT -5
Please contact the family directly at smashburn@yahoo.com or (423) 368-3298 if interested! We have an augmentative speech device--Easy Start's SpringBoard Lite, for sale. The Springboard Lite is manufactured by Prentke Romich Company. The device originally sold for $4,300 and is in great shape. Currently, a new one is listing for $2,600. The following link has more information about the device: store.prentrom.com/product_info.php/cPath/11/products_id/8 It has the protective cover, chargers and manual with it. We had hoped that it would assist our son with his communication efforts, but it is too advanced for him. We are selling this one in an effort to purchase one a little more accommodating to his needs and abilities. We are asking $1,500 OBO for it. We hope that it might be a more affordable and viable option for an agency, school or family looking for such a device. If anyone is interested, they can email me at smashburn@yahoo.com or call my cell phone (423) 368-3298. Thanks, Scott Mashburn |
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Nov 15, 2011 14:57:57 GMT -5
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Nov 15, 2011 15:04:46 GMT -5
Good afternoon, This is likely our final notice of intent to move the DCE listserve to Google Groups. If you haven't responded to the Google Invitation or otherwise joined please do so as soon as possible. Future announcements will begin going out next week via the new service. If you have problems signing up please contact Todd Hash directly at bestdestiny@gmail.com and he will work with you personally to make the move. In the meantime here are some steps to join in case you cannot find the original invitation. Steps: 1) Visit: groups.google.com/group/dce-tenn2) Click: Sign in and apply for membership 3) Login with your existing Google Account or create a new account with your existing e-mail address. (You do not need to create a Google Gmail address). 4) If creating an account – complete the required fields 5) Check your e-mail and click the provided link to verify your Google Account 6) Go back to: groups.google.com/group/dce-tenn |
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Nov 16, 2011 14:49:32 GMT -5
HK also won one of the Mayor's Advisory Council Awards this year. He's a wonderful young man, super bright, a born leader. Enjoy this great news footage! Ned mobile.newschannel5.com/wap/news/text.jsp?sid=14&nid=1610843700&title=Nashville's%20%E2%80%98Mr.%20Unforgettable'%20Remembers%20Everything&headtitle=News&nstart=0&cid=17613&scid=0&from=&redir=&ith=-1&storytitle=Nashville's+%E2%80%98Mr.+Unforgettable'+Remembers+Everything |
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Nov 16, 2011 14:50:14 GMT -5
TNABA would like to announce there 2012 Traveling Goalball Men’s and Women’s teams tri-outs will be held on Saturday November 19th from 2 – 4 pm, at the TN School for the Blind. Any one 16 and older that wishes to play on the traveling team next year should attend the tri-outs. For more information please contact Ricky Jones at 615-390-4178. Tennessee Association of Blind Athletes 1081 Zophi Street, Nashville TN 37216 Email: tnaba@bellsouth.net Phone: 615-390-4178 Web: www.tnaba.org |
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Nov 16, 2011 14:56:51 GMT -5
"Tuesday With Morrie" Tuesdays with Morrie is the final lesson between a college professor, Morrie, and one of his long lost students, Mitch. After seeing his professor in an interview on the TV show "Nightline," Mitch is reminded of a promise he made sixteen years ago to keep in touch with him. Now stricken with ALS, Morrie does not have much time left. Mitch travels from Michigan to Massachusetts to meet with him. This meeting goes well and affects Mitch and Morrie so much that they meet for the next 14 Tuesdays, until Morrie passes away. Each time they discuss a different topic about life: death, love, culture, marriage, regret, among many others. You will laugh and cry as you watch this moving performance. r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?llr=coy6pgdab&et=1108624014121&s=817&e=001cLIs93zm-NAOUSYQhZ2K9tguNwd-Zzge1G9rQR6jnZ9HlaF5WkZNdFHwajVqI5IeOYSWQyRfmw3dpxSishkKGA-x164LagwgvyfzgHKmqjBjEntrbCusFnQ0zbx3dlvqX5lZIwyqR1ZTHHUeK5lcQg==Sat., November 19...7:30 PM TICKETS: $11 Adults, $9 Kids, Seniors, Students The Colonnade Civic Center in Ringgold, GA Closed Door Entertainment will present the play, "Tuesdays With Morrie." The show above will be interpreted in ASL. A special seating section will be available on a first come, first served basis. Doors open 30 minutes before the performance. Come early for best seats. For more information call: 706-935-9000 |
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Nov 17, 2011 17:41:25 GMT -5
Twelve Tips for Helping People with Autism and Their Families Have a Happy Holiday While many happily anticipate the coming holiday season, families of people on the autism spectrum also understand the special challenges that may occur when schedules are disrupted and routines broken. Our hope is that by following these few helpful tips, families may lessen the stress of the holiday season and make it a more enjoyable experience for everyone involved. Read more: support.autism-society.org/site/R?i=_vVWO0Pue2N34YCWyGCFUg------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Documentary Featuring Autism Society of Maine One of Most-Watched Online Making Our Way: Autism is a new documentary produced by Maine Public Broadcasting Network (MPBN) that seeks to demystify autism. Rather than focus on limitations, the film examines a broad spectrum of individual experiences with autism and looks at how many people with autism have gone on to achieve great success. Read more: support.autism-society.org/site/R?i=C-qek0rkc3fUSb5Rs-gmSA------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ AMC and the Autism Society to Present Sensory Friendly Films for Older Audiences AMC Theatres and the Autism Society are proud to announce the expansion of the Sensory Friendly Films program in an effort to appeal to older audiences. AMC will play The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn – Part 1 on Wednesday, Nov. 30, at 7 p.m. at select locations currently participating in the Sensory Friendly Films program. The movie will play at select participating AMC theatres in the following markets: Kansas City, Los Angeles, Philadelphia, Atlanta, Phoenix, Chicago, Minneapolis, Denver, New York and Washington, D.C. Visit www.autism-society.org/sensoryfilms for fliers and theatre information. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Autism Journeys: Alexis’ Story In Autism Journeys, we ask individuals on the spectrum, professionals and family members of all kinds to share their stories of what they have learned in their journeys with autism. This week, an older sister tries to put herself in her younger brother’s shoes. Read more: support.autism-society.org/site/R?i=RIvkcaWTH9_C3xmu729U8g----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Autism Linked with Excess of Neurons in Prefrontal Cortex A study by researchers at the University of California, San Diego Autism Center of Excellence shows that brain overgrowth in boys with autism involves an abnormal, excess number of neurons in areas of the brain associated with social, communication and cognitive development. Read more: support.autism-society.org/site/R?i=pO9pyYmfOsoaGWJxmrnj2Q------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- A Picture’s Worth The book that thousands of families, therapists, and educators worldwide have relied on to help children and adults with autism become effective communicators is now available in an updated second edition. A Picture’s Worth covers visual communication strategies – picture symbols, gestures, signing and electronic devices – with an emphasis on PECS. Read more: support.autism-society.org/site/R?i=iUqPv5LsuI0tFLbKfKnoXg----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 12 Things Every JAG (& Military Parent) Should Know Moving once every three years, military families who have children with special needs face unique financial, medical, and legal issues, particularly during deployment or a PCS. Read more: support.autism-society.org/site/R?i=Xmx76SBmqsKfdWX8r9pzxA----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Autism Information for Social Workers and Counselors Social workers and counselors may encounter or be asked to provide services to an individual with autism spectrum disorder who has been the victim of a crime. Read more on our downloadable resources page: support.autism-society.org/site/R?i=VNz9PQuJ4iQ3lDXLnVhZRg--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Autism Society 4340 East-West Hwy, Suite 350, Bethesda, Maryland 20814 301.657.0881 or 1.800.3AUTISM |
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Nov 17, 2011 17:42:33 GMT -5
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Nov 17, 2011 17:44:17 GMT -5
East Tennessee Technology Access Center’s annual Toy Tech party for children with disabilities who cannot use their hands to play with typical toys will be on Monday, December 5th from 4:00 to 6:30 p.m. at the Kerbela Shrine Temple, 315 Mimosa Avenue in Knoxville.
Parents must register their child to receive a toy and the party by calling (865) 219-0130 by December 2nd.
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Nov 17, 2011 17:50:21 GMT -5
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Nov 17, 2011 17:52:44 GMT -5
For a preview of one of the fabulous speakers at the upcoming Transition Conference, Ann Palmer, sign on to the link below. She will be doing a webinar entitled "Celebrating Holidays: Autism College Q & A with author Ann Palmer" on November 17th with Chantal Sicile-Kira. If you are interested, the link is autismcollege.com/blog/2011/11/01/celebrating-holidays-autism-college-q-a-with-author-ann-palmer/(Please note that the time of the webinar listed is Pacific time, so it will be 9:00 pm EST and 8:00 pm CST) -- Chattanooga Autism Center Where the Pieces Come Together ChattanoogaAutismCenter.org |
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Nov 21, 2011 14:51:04 GMT -5
Let's Go to the Movies In partnership with the Autism Society, AMC Movie theatres will be providing showings of sensory friendly films on a monthly basis. The program offers an opportunity for families and individuals with disabilities to watch the films in an theater auditorium with the lights up, sound turned down, and which is accepting of the noise and activity of the audience. Locations nationwide are participating; the list of theaters can be found here: tndisability.us2.list-manage.com/track/click?u=088ba7579477f44de53c5eded&id=2fa051505a&e=2876e3927c Another new resource, Captionfish.com, is a search engine that helps you find captioned films showing within 60 miles of your location and provides accessible showtimes. There is also a theater directory of all the theaters in your area known to have provided or which currently provide accessible shows. A trailer directory of current releases with captions, and list of upcoming captioned releases includes information on some subtitled foreign films. There is a Captionfish app available as well. |
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Nov 21, 2011 14:51:52 GMT -5
Our School Kids In 2010, the number of school-aged children reported to have a disability was 2.8 million, according to the U.S. Census Report issued this week. An analysis of the numbers shows that of the school-aged children in metropolitan areas who had a disability: •89.4 percent were enrolled in public schools •7.3 percent were enrolled in private schools •3.3 percent were not enrolled in school The only geographic area analyzed in Tennessee was the Nashville-Davidson–Murfreesboro–Franklin metro area, wherein 4.5 % of school-aged children enrolled in public schools were reported to have a disability. For more go to: www.census.gov/prod/2011pubs/acsbr10-12.pdf |
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Nov 21, 2011 14:52:24 GMT -5
TN Disability MegaConference The 2012 Tennessee Disability MegaConference will be May 31st and June 1st at the Nashville Airport Marriott. The MegaConference is Tennessee’s largest disability-specific conference for individuals with disabilities, family members, and professionals, and has previously drawn over 1,000 attendees. The MegaConference is now accepting proposals from community members who are interested in speaking. The Theme for the 2012 MegaConference is “Tools for Empowerment and Change,” and the deadline for proposal submission is 12/15/11. To submit your proposal, go to: redcap.vanderbilt.edu/surveys/?s=yh8YuS |
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Nov 21, 2011 14:54:07 GMT -5
Please complete the survey on Parental Perceptions about Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) use with their Children on the Autism Spectrum. This survey should be completed by parents of children with autism. To complete the survey, please follow this link: docs.google.com/spreadsheet/viewform?hl=en_US&formkey=dDdmLWk3RDU4ZmR5QUtmb3dvdTJvV3c6MA#gid=0 If you have any questions about the survey, please send them to aac_autismsurvey@yahoo.com. If you have questions or concerns about your rights as a participant in this survey, please contact Ruth Galm, Human Protections Administrator, Eastern Washington University, by phone at 509-359-7971 or by email at rgalm@mail.ewu.edu Thank you for participating! Alicia Gallis, B.A. Stephanie Turner, B.S. Eastern Washington University Teresa Cardon, Ph.D, CCC-SLP Washington State University Dr. Donald Fuller Department Chair of Communication Disorders Eastern Washington University *Attention: By clicking the link you are consenting to participate in this voluntary research. *Human subjects protocol HS-3739 entitled “Survey of Parental Perceptions of Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) in Children with Autism” has been approved as an exemption from federal regulations under CFR Title 45, Part 46.101(b)(1-6). |
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Nov 21, 2011 14:56:19 GMT -5
I’m Genevieve Athens and I'm working with my friend and colleague, Dennis Debbaudt, to help his 20-year mission of providing the best professional autism related training and training tools for law enforcement, first response and criminal justice professionals. I first met Dennis when we brought him to Oregon in 2005 while I was Executive Director of the Autism Society of Oregon (ASO). Dennis assisted ASO in a year long project that provided autism training for the Portland Police Bureau. He's presented throughout Oregon in the years since. I know you saw an ad of Dennis’s company in Law Enforcement Product and had expressed some interest so I wanted to keep you updated on his latest offerings. Dennis was the first to address the interactions between law enforcement and people with autism in his 1994 report Avoiding Unfortunate Situations. He's also written reports published in the FBI Law Enforcement Bulletin, Sheriff Magazine and authored the 2002 book Autism, Advocates and Law Enforcement Professionals. Dennis travels throughout North America and internationally to train law enforcement, fire-rescue, emergency medical and criminal justice professionals on how to handle field contacts with people living with autism spectrum disorders to ensure the safety of all involved. Dennis has an adult son who has ASD. So, he has first hand knowledge of behavioral triggers that could compromise safety during interactions with police officers or other emergency responders. VIDEOS: As you may know, Dennis joined with Emmy Award-winning news editor/videographer, Dave Legacy in 2003 to produce documentary style videos that deliver first class training tools for autism safety and awareness, specifically: Ø Autism & Law Enforcement Roll Call Briefing: The use of state-of-the-art editing and graphics, a creative and informative script, and action makes this video and booklet the perfect autism training tool for law enforcement (2004) Ø Autism, Fire-Rescue & Emergency Medical Services: This 17-minute video illustrates autism related dispatches while offering tips, options and special tactics designed to enhance communications and manage sensory influences that can cause behavioral outbursts in the field and emergency room (2009). Ø Autism in the Criminal Justice System: Illustrates verbal and non verbal communications difficulties experienced by persons with autism who may become victims, witnesses or offenders in the criminal justice system (2009). These videos are in use in training rooms throughout North America and available for in-service training of your agency. More details and ordering information can be found at the Debbaudt Legacy Productions, LLC website at www.debbaudtlegacy.com/index.cfm. Dennis and his West Coast training consultant, Officer Brian Herritt, are still traveling to conduct trainings directly. If you would like to discuss on-site trainings, please contact Dennis at ddpi@flash.net or via phone at (772)398-9756 (son with autism may answer phone). And to find out more about Dennis and the services and resources he offer, visit www.autismriskmanagement.com. We can help your agency address all autism related training needs. Thanks for your time and let me know if I can answer any questions. Best regards, Genevieve Athens Special Projects Coordinator Autism Risk & Safety Management Debbaudt Legacy Productions, LLC (503)774-8811 PST |
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Nov 21, 2011 14:58:10 GMT -5
Miracle League reaches $350,000 goal for Miracle Field Dalton, Georgia - November 20, 2011: Bluegrass Bands Helping Hands is pleased to share that after receiving an anonymous gift of $65,000 The Miracle League of Whitfield County Georgia has reached their fundraising goal of $350,000. The funds will be used to finish construction of The Miracle Field, a specialized baseball park serving children and adults with special needs in North Georgia and Chattanooga, Tennessee. Last spring Bluegrass Bands and Helping Hands released a benefit CD to help raise public awareness for the Miracle Field project. The CD Bluegrass Bands Helping Hands Volume 3: "Big Leagues" is a fantastic collection of 16 donated tracks featuring traditional bluegrass, gospel bluegrass, and contemporary bluegrass and beyond. Performing artists include: Earl Brackin, Mark "Brink" Brinkman, Greg Brooks, Becky Buller, The Dixie Bee-Liners, Jim and Valerie Gabehart, The Hillbenders, Jubal's Kin, Jean-Luc Leroux, The Lone Mountain Band, Milkdrive, Rich In Tradition, Frank Solivan and Dirty Kitchen, Special Consensus, Valerie Smith and Beck Buller, and Donna Ulisse. In October, Mountain Heart, Missy Raines & The New Hip, The Farewell Drifters, MilkDrive, Steel String Session, Gary Stanley Jr., Rightpath Bluegrass Band and Spatial Effects performed at the Downtown Dalton BBQ and Music Festival to raise awareness of this worthy cause. "We can't thank all of our supporters enough" says Millie Hicks Miracle League board member. "We are so grateful for the generosity of everyone involved, but this is only the beginning--we will continue to raise funds for a handicapped accessible playground, and yearly sponsors for equipment, uniforms, etc. Thank you for all you have done!" The Bluegrass Bands Helping Hands Volume 3 CD sells for $15 with 100% of the proceeds benefiting the Miracle Field. CD's are available until December 1st at the following North Georgia locations or on-line at www.bluegrassbandshelpinghands.com . Supporters may also make tax deductible donations directly to The Miracle League (see website for information) www.communityfoundationnwga.org/MiracleLeague.html. |
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Nov 21, 2011 14:59:40 GMT -5
Presenting the first Sensory Friendly Film event for this region - Happy Feet Two.
If this event goes well, ASA-ETC and AMC will investigate the possibility of making Sensory Friendly Films a regular monthly thing! So, show your support and PLEASE spread the word!
SENSORY FRIENDLY FILMS
WHEN: Saturday, December 10th, 10am start time.
WHERE: UEC Theatres 14, 137 Pleasant Grove Rd SW, Cleveland, TN 37353
DETAILS: Sound system will be turned down much lower than typical showings. Lights in theater will be raised. Families may bring their own snack food if anyone has a restrictive diet. AMC’s “Silence is Golden” policy will not be enforced.
While the Sensory Friendly Films program is nationwide, this is the first event of its kind in our region. The Cleveland UEC Theatres14 is one of the only AMC locations in all of East Tennessee and we are grateful to them for providing this opportunity.
This program provides a special opportunity for people with sensory issues to enjoy a movie in a safe and accepting environment. The auditoriums dedicated to the program have their lights up, the sound turned down and audience members are invited to get up and dance, walk, shout or sing! If you have questions, you can email Dave Buck at buck.dave@gmail.com
Chattanooga Autism Center
Where the Pieces Come Together
ChattanoogaAutismCenter.org
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Nov 24, 2011 11:08:34 GMT -5
www.asha.org/Publications/leader/2011/111011/Apps--An-Emerging-Tool-for-SLPs/Apps: An Emerging Tool for SLPs A plethora of apps can be used to develop expressive, receptive, and other language skills. by Jessica Gosnell Portable electronic devices such as the iPhone, Droid, BlackBerry, and iPad, collectively termed mobile media devices, have changed the way we interact with the world, from social connections to work and entertainment. Speech-language pathologists are not exempt from this "mobile revolution," as the platform has changed the way many SLPs engage clients to meet their individualized goals. Although there are many mobile devices with application (app) options for SLPs, including the Droid platform, this article will focus on the iDevices, including the iPad, iTouch, and iPhone, as this author has the most experience with this platform. (A list of Droid apps for children with special needs [PDF] created by special education teacher Jeremy Brown is available online.) It is clear that iDevices are quickly becoming a key tool in our intervention arsenal. The multifunctional, engaging platform allows for a convergence of treatment materials, quick access to incentives, and data collection. The iDevices are relatively inexpensive and available through local retailers or online stores, and apps are affordable and easily acquired through downloads. However, the unparalleled popularity of the platform—coupled with the speed with which apps are being produced—has resulted in new challenges and responsibilities for SLPs (Gosnell, Costello, & Shane, 2011). SLPs have always needed to be informed, creative, and critical, but the rapidly changing world of apps and iDevices introduces new challenges for savvy clinicians. Being informed now means keeping up to date with an ever-growing selection of apps created to support speech and language goals. With creativity, we can maximize the diagnostic and therapeutic "power" of the iDevice platform by using these dedicated apps and the built-in features of the iDevice. Through imaginative client-centered creativity, the SLP may use a broad range of apps not expressly designed or intended to target speech, language, and communication objectives to entice clients to engage actively in and enjoy intervention. It is also critical that we remember the clinical adage that "no single tool fits the needs of all clients" and that we should always first focus on matching a client's needs, strengths, and skills to the most appropriate tools and strategies (Shane & Costello, 1994). It is imperative that we continue to be critical in our assessment and be aware of the potential mismatch of apps and iDevice platforms to a client's actual needs. Dedicated Applications We are entering a new era of tech-savvy kids. Many young children are exposed to their parents' iDevices. Children are able to manipulate and interact with these devices easily and with very little instruction and are engaged in the technologies for long periods. Clinicians can use this interest to their advantage through the many "dedicated" speech applications available through digital marketplaces, such as the iTunes store, including apps for language development, speech/sound production, receptive language, organizational skills, and augmentative communication. Speech-production apps commonly provide a deck of images targeting phonemes in initial, medial, and final word positions (e.g., Pocket SLP, ArtikPix). In addition, many of the apps have built-in data collection features to support managing many students on a caseload (e.g., PhonoPix). The animations and reinforcement provided for correct answers are an added bonus to an already enticing medium. Traditional language treatment (expanding mean length of utterance, using various syntax forms, increasing lexical diversity) can still be targeted through apps (e.g., iStory, 60 Story starters). Table 1 [PDF] provides examples of dedicated apps that target goals of spoken language production. (This article includes a number of tables that highlight examples of applications. They are not intended to provide a compilation of all possible apps that could be used for speech-language assessment and intervention, given the prolific, fast-paced, and dynamic worldwide development of apps.) As with expressive language, many apps target receptive language skills. Receptive skills sometimes require spoken answers, but other times simply require pointing to an appropriate object or picture. Table 2 [PDF] includes examples of apps created to target both modalities for enhancing receptive language abilities. Preposition Remix and Splingo's Language Universe are examples of apps that use a game format, requiring the child to point to or move the appropriate object or picture on the screen. Many apps require the child to "talk out" answers (e.g., if…then) or describe scenes (e.g., "the boy is in the bed…"), and some even record user responses. Table 3 [PDF] identifies many commonly used augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) applications—apps developed to enhance, replace, or supplement an individual's communication capabilities. More than 100 AAC applications are available through such marketplaces as iTunes. Websites, blogs, and Google documents seem to be a common source of information about AAC apps, and often can be used as a first step toward acquiring information. Creatively Adapting Apps A search focused only on a specific profile of dedicated apps (speech production, targeted language goals, augmentative communication) could miss many well-designed apps that offer motivating and fun learning opportunities. Using creativity, clinicians can reach beyond an app's intended target audience and purpose and adapt it to support interventions. Apps created for other purposes (e.g., Starfall, created for early literacy skills) could be used to motivate uninspired children to engage in intervention goals such as letter knowledge, phonemic awareness, and decoding skills. Starfall, for example, was helpful in working with Sophia, a 5-year-old girl with cerebral palsy who vocalizes minimally. Her mother reported Sophia "shut down" in regard to using her voice, refusing to produce any form of sound even when engaged in imitation tasks, co-active movement, or play. When presented with the Starfall app on an iPad during an assessment, Sophia quickly started touching letters while producing sound approximations mimicking the sounds by the iPad. Like Starfall, almost any app can be transformed into a treatment tool. The free app "Doodle Buddy," for example, created for "painting, drawing, scribbling, and sketching," can be adapted and used to meet many intervention goals. Table 4 [PDF] provides examples of expressive and receptive uses of this app. The examples include common therapy goals (on the left) and images that correspond to an activity or goal (on the right). Although this app was not created for speech-language intervention, a creative clinician use it well beyond its intended purpose to support a variety of expressive and receptive goals and activities. In the series "from useless to learning apps," SLP Barbara Frenandes details similar examples of using what some may term "useless apps" (e.g., Angry Birds). She highlights how to capitalize on the child's captivation with the app and to conduct a productive, goal-directed treatment session. Table 5 [PDF] details apps—although not created explicitly to target receptive or expressive goals—that imaginative clinicians can use as a catalyst for participation. They can be used in many different ways (speech production, sequencing, voice feedback, pacing, age-appropriate concepts, following directions, etc.). Potential goals may include following directions (e.g., My Playhome, Cupcake Corner), increasing vocabulary (e.g., Pogg), or sequencing (e.g., More Pizza!). (For more ideas and app lists, refer to Therapy App 411, Geek SLP, and Speech Language Pathology Sharing.) These sites provide lists of apps and examples of ways to use an app to support a variety of expressive and receptive goals and activities. Using Photo Libraries Many of the applications adapted for treatment are low-cost. An additional no-cost resource is the use of your photo library. This built-in feature is commonly untapped and easily can be used to support a broad range of activities and interventions (see Table 6 [PDF]). Examples include creating: An "articulation deck" (download photographs that are in the public domain). A photo deck for description (e.g., pronouns). A library filled with photographs for preference indication (an individual can "scroll" through and select photos). An organized photo library with activities specific to individuals on your caseload. Creating photo folders with individuals' names or activities allows easy access to clients' photos during sessions. A sequencing activity or a visual schedule. A photo deck for object, scene, dynamic, and element cues (Shane & Weiss-Kapp, 2007). App Pitfalls The iDevice platform is exciting, but it warrants caution because of pitfalls that could affect the course of intervention and impede progress. We are observing shifts away from the SLP being the driving force behind intervention: In some instances families are choosing to "self-treat," and in others the educator or tech department is handing out iPads with preselected apps, requring clinicians to fit their clients' treatment to the available iDevice and apps. Speech-production apps should not be used in place of speech-language treatment with a certified SLP, nor should use of apps for clinical purposes proceed without training and guidance. Solid clinical judgment and knowledge are required to assess and monitor the efficacy of an app as a clinical tool. Many of the listed apps may be user-friendly, but provide incorrect feedback, such as accepting incorrect sound production responses as correct, inaccurately collecting data, or encouraging the user to ignore function in lieu of drilling on "just any sound" instead of clinically relevant targets. A comprehensive assessment must be the starting point prior to selecting an iDevice and app or any other tool or strategy. The popularity of the iDevice platform, coupled with the impressive speed with which apps that parallel desirable features of dedicated speech-generating devices are being produced, have resulted in many practitioners forgoing, or at least temporarily suspending, well-established clinical assessment strategies. When SLPs select the iDevice platform and apps without assessments, they run the risk of making decisions without sufficient experience or clinical judgment and knowledge (including awareness of language abilities or needs, other assistive communication device options, and the differentiating features of apps). A great harm of reckless clinical decisions is the time wasted trying to learn or use an inappropriate communication technology. As a way to ensure appropriateness of apps, clinicians should ask two primary questions: "Were the iDevice platform and accompanying app determined through a thorough clinical feature-matching process?" and "Are we fitting the person to the iDevice and communication app or are we fitting the person systematically to the iDevice?" (Gosnell, Costello, & Shane, 2011). As responsible SLPs, we should be alert to the overuse and flurry of recommendations for iDevices as they relate to replacing intervention with a certified SLP and dedicated AAC devices. In many cases these devices fall short: the iDevice doesn't provide appropriate feedback, the application freezes, the volume is not sufficient in many environments, the hardware is quite fragile, or access options for those with motor challenges are limited (Farrall, blog 2011). As SLP Jane Farrall states, "I could spend a lot of time trying to ‘make' this technology work for someone when there is a piece of specifically designed technology that will work straightaway." As we enter this new era of educating and engaging tech-savvy children, providers must continue to learn and challenge themselves to develop more engaging and relevant assessment and intervention strategies. The iDevice platform can be loaded with free and reasonably priced apps that may be used to support work in speech, language, comprehension, AAC, and literacy. Apps can easily be incorporated into treatment and may at times be the most effective support of our intervention goals. But only through informed clinical judgment and a continued demand for evidence can a tool or strategy be deemed the most judicious and effective for a client's needs. We must maintain an ever-diligent focus on what most motivates and engages a child to demonstrate true competence. Only then can we legitimately incorporate the iRevolution into our arsenal of best clinical practice. Jessica Gosnell, MS, CCC-SLP, is a clinician in the Augmentative Communication Program in the Department of Otolaryngology and Center for Communication Enhancement at Children's Hospital in Boston. She is a member of Special Interest Group 12, Augmentative and Alternative Communication. Contact her at jessica.gosnell@childrens.harvard.edu.
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Nov 28, 2011 17:51:47 GMT -5
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