Hello, please scroll down for news and information ...

Monday, September 12th, 6:30 – 8:00 pm:HEART OF TEXAS AUTISM NETWORK MEETING
*“Opportunities and Possibilities”*
TOM PEARSON, Director, Arc of McLennan County
LOCATION: 801 Washington (8th & Washington, in the Baylor School of Social Work
building), 9th floor.
The Arc promotes opportunities for people with intellectual and
developmental disabilities to be included in their communities and make the
choices that affect their lives.
Some of the services that the Arc provides:
after-school programs, summer day camp, youth/young adult social groups, life
skills training, money management services, and more.  Tom has been a vital
resource for families in this region. He has a wealth of knowledge and
information to share and stories to tell!

Childcare will be available, with RSVP; contact Natalie Passanante at
natalie_passanante@... to make a reservation for childcare. Driving and
parking directions can be found at
http://www.hotautismnetwork.org/directions.html

For more information contact Anita Karney at 214 766 3260.

============================

SCOUTING OPPORTUNITY!
Today, approximately 100,000 Cub Scouts, Boy Scouts, and Venturers with
disabilities (including autism) are registered with the Boy Scouts of America in
more than 4,000 units chartered to community organizations.
If you are interested in joining, a local organization will sponsor a unit and
provide meeting space. Contact Anita Karney
(anitakarney@..., 214-766-3260) for more information.


=============================

Let’s Do Lunch!
Let’s get together for lunch!  Send an email to waconewstouse@..., if you
would like to just get together with some other parents on a regular basis.
If there is a day of the week which is better for you, include that in your
reply.

============================


SUPPERCLUBS

“First Monday” SupperClub  Monday, October 3rd, 6:00pm – Chili’s
Monday, October 3, 6 pm
5804 Bosque Blvd, Waco (254) 776-8330
We’re back at Chili’s!! The “First Monday” group is for all ages, but is more
focused on those under 13 and/or those that aren't as independent in ordering,
waiting, and paying for their meal. The kids all sit together with volunteers,
while parents sit elsewhere in the restaurant. Older kids will sit together at
one table with volunteers, and the younger group will be together with
volunteers. Contact Lisa Plemons at lisabplemons@... for more information,
and to RSVP.




Teen Plus “Fourth Tuesday” SupperClub: Tuesday, Sept. 27th:Fuddruckers
Tuesday, September 27,  6 pm
1411 N Valley Mills Drive, Waco (254) 776-0961
The Tuesday night group (4th Tuesday of the month) will be specifically for
higher functioning teens (13 and older) and young adults. This will include
those that are independent or close to being independent in ordering, waiting,
and paying for their meal. This should also include those that need little to no
assistance in leaving the group to go to the restroom. This group rotates
locations and generally chooses each month where they want to meet.

============================


Other Meetings

NOTICE : H.O.T. Kids Bowling Group will not be meeting Saturday, September 10,
due to a bowling tournament scheduled for that day at the AMF Bowling Lanes.

==============================

  Caregivers Ladder – Support group for caregivers of special-needs children
(Temple)
6 pm, 2nd and 4th Wednesdays of each month, Wilson Recreation Center, 2205
Curtis B. Elliott Drive Temple TX
Go to www.caregiversladder.org or contact Michelle Bartlett at
caregiversladders@..., or  (254) 217-8011 for more information.

===========================

“For Our Support”, Support Group for Special Needs Families (Hillsboro)
7 pm, 4th  Thursdays of each month; 126 South Covington, in annex meeting room
For more information contact Suzanne Jackson at suzyjackson64@....


=============================

First Friends  For Autism, Aspergers & Special Needs Kids: The Education
Connection, Killeen, Tx
Group for families with children with autism spectrum disorders, organizing
holiday events, weekly play dates, etc. For more details go to:
http://www.meetup.com/Fort-Hood-Children-with-Autism-and-Aspergers/

==============================

A+ Support Group for Families with Special Needs Children (Belton)
September 17, 2011, 10:00am-12:00pm, First Baptist Church Belton, Room 256.
Childcare is provided for children with special needs and their siblings; RSVP
by Friday, September 16th at 12 noon; contact Tracy O’Banon
tracy.obanon@....

================================


NEWS

FREE Therapeutic Horseriding Sessions: Children with ASD 5-7 years of age

REACH Therapeutic Riding Center is partnering with Dr. Beth Lanning,
Director, Community Health Undergraduate Program at Baylor, for a 12-week study
involving the benefits of therapeutic riding for children diagnosed with an
autism spectrum disorders. Children 5-7 years of age are eligible.
For more information, contact Barbara Epps at reachtrc@..., or
254-848-7888

============================


Special-Needs Swimming Instruction at YMCA
YMCA of Central Texas continues to offer swimming instruction to those with
special needs. completely individualised for each student, with flexible
scheduling and extremely reasonable cost: $25 for four weekly sessions for
nonmembers (that's $7.50 per session), or $10 for members. Call Chris Bernard at
254-405-3764, or chris.bernard@..., for more information and to schedule
classes


=================================

Saturday, September 17, 2011 – 3rd Annual “Meet & Greet” Special Needs
Get-Together (Rockdale)
Rockdale Fair Park Pavilion, 200 Walnut Street, Rockdale
2 pm -5 pm
For more information, contact  Denitra Rideaux-512-446-4910 or 512-626-6583;
Rita Schupp-254-931-4745, or Teresa Mireles-512-446-5408

====================================

Sunday, October 2nd:  Heart of Texas Down Syndrome Network’s First Annual Buddy
Walk
Cameron Park, Waco
2 pm – 5 pm
For more information and to register, go to www.hotdsn.org .

==========================

Transition planning must begin at 14

State law (S.B. 1788, in effect September 1, 2011) requires school districts to
begin transition planning for student receiving special education services NO
LATER than when the student reaches 14 years of age. Transition planning should
help a student move from school to adult life and address issues regarding
living in the community as independently as possible, employment, recreation,
social activities, and post-secondary education/learning opportunities.
Texas law requires that Transition Planning should be based on the
individual child's needs, taking into account the child's strengths,
preferences, and interests; and include instruction, related services,
community experiences, employment, development of employment and other
post-school adult living objectives; acquisition of daily living skills and
provision of a functional vocational evaluation.


Here are some resources that may be helpful:

Texas Education Agency: Transition Guidance Page
http://www.tea.state.tx.us/index2.aspx?id=2147496883

Texas Council for Developmental Disabilities:  Resource Guide on Higher
Education for People with Disabilities:
http://www.txddc.state.tx.us/resources/publications/collegehtml.asp

PACER Center: Parent Tips for Transition Planning
http://www.pacer.org/publications/pdfs/ALL14.pdf


=================================

Microboard: Live the Life of Your Dreams … How to Make it Happen

What is a Microboard?
A microboard is a small group of committed family and friends who join
together with a person with a disability to create a nonprofit organization.
This group develops a PATH (Planning Alternative Tomorrows with Hope) to address
the individual's support needs and identify their goals and dreams.
This PATH becomes the microboard's mission.

=================================

2011 Microconference: September 23, Waco TX

Create Your Own Nonprofit to Support a Loved One -- Learn How to Be a
Medicaid Waiver Provider
Friday, September 23, 9:00 am - 1:00 pm (Lunch will be provided)
Autin Avenue Methodist Church, 1300 Austin Avenue, Waco TX
FREE (RSVP required). RSVP online (click here) or call Christy Ogle at
254-836-5038
A microboard is formed when a group of family and friends join with a person
with a disability and together create a nonprofit to address the individual's
support needs, help them achieve their goals and realise their dreams. Download
the flyer (click here) for more information.
To learn more about the Texas Microboard Collaboration, go to the Arc of Texas
website at
http://www.thearcoftexas.org/site/PageServer?pagename=partners_microboard

========================================

NEW IEP Guide from AutismSpeaks

http://www.autismspeaks.org/sites/default/files/iep_guide.pdf
The 26-page guide includes an overview and timeline of key events in the typical
IEP process, explains the steps parents need to take throughout – including how
to contest an unfavorable decision. In addition to a list of questions to
consider in developing a draft IEP,the guide also includes tips, resources, a
checklist and answers to frequently asked questions, as well as a list of
helpful web sites and other resources

=========================================

Special-Ed PTA forming in Central Texas

http://www.gopetition.com/petitions/special-education-pta-of-central-texas.html
There will be a training on September 17 in Killeen for anyone wanting to be a
board member. If you want to be on the board member, sign in at the petition
site and leave a note.

=========================================

Opportunity to Serve: Council on Children and Families (Health & Human
Services)

The Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) is accepting
applications for a public representative to serve on the Council on Children and
Families
www.hhsc.state.tx.us/about_hhsc/AdvisoryCommittees/Council.shtml
The Council is comprised of executive leadership from health and human
services agencies, juvenile justice agencies, the central education agency, the
workforce commission, and four representatives from the public.
Applications are being accepted from parents of children who have received
services from either HHSC or one of the Council’s member agencies --
Department of Aging and Disability Services (DADS), Department of State Health
Services (DSHS), Department of Assistive and Rehabilitative Services (DARS), or
Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS).
Go to
www.hhsc.state.tx.us/about_hhsc/AdvisoryCommittees/Report-SB1646.pdfto
view their 2010 Report: “Promoting Healthy Children, Strengthening
Families”.
Applications are due no later than October 7, 2011.
Download the application form at
www.hhsc.state.tx.us/about_hhsc/AdvisoryCommittees/Council.shtml

========================================

SSI Child Disability Starter Kits

Websites from Social Security Administration provides information,
checklists and worksheets to guide you through the process of applying for SSI.

For Children (under 18)
www.ssa.gov/disability/disability_starter_kits_child_eng.htm

For Adults
http://www.ssa.gov/disability/disability_starter_kits_adult_eng.htm

=========================================

Disaster Preparedness for Special-Needs

  “Be Prepared”, as the Boy Scout Motto tells us. Here are  sites with
emergency preparedness information:

*Waco-McLennan County Office of  Emergency Management –* Disaster,
Emergency, and Safety Tips:

For emergency and safety tips for a variety of circumstances, including
brushfire and wildfire safety.
http://www.waco-texas.com/emergency-tips.asp


Residents may also register their household with the *Emergency Notification
System* at http://hotcog.emtel911.com/reg/Login/Register.aspx

*FEMA:* “Preparing for Disaster for People with Disabilities and other
Special Needs”
http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?id=1442

*American Red Cross*- “Disaster Preparedness for People with
Disabilities”.

www.redcross.org/www-files/Documents/pdf/Preparedness/Fast%20Facts/Disaster_Prep\
aredness_for_PwD-English.pdf

========================================

TAKE ME HOME program

This free program can literally be a lifesaver for for adults or children who
may have difficulty communicating due to a developmental or cognitive
disability.

The Take Me Home www.waco-texas.com/police-take-me-home.asp
program is a free registry available to McLennan County residents, for adults
and children who may have difficulty communicating due to a developmental or
cognitive disability.

The database, which is accessible only to law enforcement personnel, is
maintained by the Waco Police Department Communications Division.

If someone in the Take Me Home program is encountered by a police officer or
deputy dispatched by Waco, law enforcement personnel can access the database for
critical information that may assist in communicating with the individual and a
safe return to the caregiver.

This could be crucial when a person is unable to speak or identify
themselves properly, if they seem disoriented or are acting in an unusual
manner.

Registration forms are available on the Waco Police Department
website www.waco-texas.com/police-take-me-home.asp
or the McLennan County Sheriff's website
www.co.mclennan.tx.us/sheriff/takemehome.aspx

Forms may be filled out and mailed or brought to the Waco Police Department at
721 N. 4th St (4th and Waco Dr.).

This form will not be accepted by email.

For any further questions, please contact Jayni Sykora at the Waco Police
Department Communications Division by phone at 254-750-7654.

=====================================

For Texas State ID Cardholders with Disabilities

Texas Drivers License and State ID cards allow for the addition of
information about any medical condition that may impede communication with a
peace officer on the back of the card, provided that the applicant brings a
signed physician's statement (Form DL-101) to verify the condition.
If this option was denied to applicants in the past, they may send a copy of
their ID card, along with the signed physician's form (DL-101) to:
Sheri Gipson, Drivers License Division
Texas Department of Public Safety
PO #4087Austin, TX 78773-0001
DPS will replace the ID with a new card that includes the medical
information, at no charge.

FOR NEW APPLICANTS:
Bring in your paperwork and all forms, including DL-101, to your local DPS
office and request that the medical condition be included on the back of the
card.
If there are any questions, the office personnel are directed to call:
Stephen Bell, 512-550-7064
Senior Manager, Customer Operations
Drivers License Division
Texas Department of Public Safety

Download Form DL-101 at
www.txdps.state.tx.us/internetforms/Forms/DL-101.pdf

For information on how to apply for a State ID card go to
http://www.txdps.state.tx.us/DriverLicense/applyforID.htm








--
*Anita Karney*
*akkarney@...*

[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

Hello,Please scroll down for news and information. Thanks!
HEART OF TEXAS AUTISM NETWORK EVENTS:
*HEART OF TEXAS AUTISM NETWORK NEXT MEETING: MONDAY, OCTOBER 10th, 6:30 - 8pm *
Speakers:  *Dianne Downing Moore*, Speech Language Pathologist
             and *Kelli Thompson*, Early Intervention Specialist
        Klaras Center for Children -- Early Childhood Intervention
Early Childhood Intervention (ECI) programs serve families with children ages
birth to third birthday that are experiencing difficulties with their
development and/or behavior.
Come hear about ECI services and programs for our children and the new
eligibility rules for ECI services!
Dianne and Kelli are a dynamic team who have much knowledge to share with
families. Bring your questions, it's sure to be an interesting and informative
meeting!!
KCC ECI team includes early intervention specialists, speech
pathologists,physical therapists, occupational therapists, dietitians, vision
and hearing specialists, social workers, behavior specialists, a nurse, a
licensed professional counselor, and others that help families help their
children reach the goals.
Klaras Children's Center ECI serves families who live in McLennan, Bosque, Hill,
Falls, Limestone, and Freestone counties.
*Meeting Location: *
Baylor School of Social Work building, 811 Washington Avenue on the corner of
Washington and 8th St., Room 919.
For printable directions go to http://www.hotautismnetwork.org/directions.html.
Free childcare is available with a reservation.
If you have not previously registered your children, please download and fill
out the form found at
http://www.hotautismnetwork.org/files/Parent_Name.245153844.doc
Please send the registration form and your reservation to Natalie Passanante at
natalie_passanante@....

*==============================================================*
*
*
SUPPERCLUBS
Teen Plus Fourth Tuesday SupperClub: Tuesday, Sept. 27th: Fuddruckers
*Tuesday, September 27,  6 pm*
1411 N Valley Mills Drive, Waco (254) 776-0961
The Tuesday night group (4th Tuesday of the month) will be specifically for
higher functioning teens (13 and older) and young adults. This will include
those that are independent or close to being independent in ordering,
waiting, and paying for their meal. This should also include those that need
little to no assistance in leaving the group to go to the restroom. This group
rotates locations and generally chooses each month where they want to meet.

“First Monday” SupperClub  Monday, October 3rd, 6:00pm – Chili’s
*Monday, October 3, 6 pm*
5804 Bosque Blvd, Waco (254) 776-8330
We’re back at Chili’s!! The “First Monday” group is for all ages, but is
more focused on those under 13 and/or those that aren't quite as independent in
ordering, waiting, and paying for their meal. The kids all sit together with
volunteers, while parents sit elsewhere in the restaurant. Older kids will sit
together at one table with volunteers, and the younger group will be together
with volunteers. Contact Lisa Plemons at lisabplemons@... for
more information, and to RSVP.
*Chili's is  partnering with the Heart of Texas Autism Network the first Monday
of every month *.. bring in the flyer
(http://www.hotautismnetwork.org/files/ChilisFlyerOctober2011.doc)
and *10% of any purchase you make that day will be donated to the Heart of Texas
Autism Network. *This applies all day, dine-in or carry-out, as well as
purchasing gift cards (great for stocking stuffers!). *REMEMBER*, you must bring
in the flyer.


*NEWS:*
**Changes in programs affecting persons with disabilties: Medicaid Waivers,ECI*
*From "FYI"*, Texas Council for Developmental Disabilities newsletter

http://www.txddc.state.tx.us/resources/publications/fyi/fyisept11/fyistate09-11.\
asp#state1


*Medicaid Waivers:*
While many waiver participants will have no change, about 20% will
facesignificant reductions starting in December 2011. If you are currently
receiving Medicaid Waiver services, you will be contacted regarding your
situation; if you need services that exceed the limits, your service provider
can apply for an exception to the cuts based on health, safety and welfare. If
an exception request is denied, you have the right to file for an appeal through
within 15 days of the denial of the exception.

*Early Childhood Intervention:*
The state budget reduces funding for Texas' Early Childhood Intervention (ECI)
program by 14% for the next 2 years. The new eligibility criteria became
effective on Sept. 1, 2011, and only affects new participants.

Children can also qualify for ECI based on having specific medically
diagnosed conditions or an auditory or visual impairment. For more
information, a message from DARS Commissioner Debra Wanser about the changes is
available at http://www.dars.state.tx.us/announcements/20110818.shtml ..


Special Ed Advocate: Successful IEP meetings
http://www.wrightslaw.com/nltr/11/nl.0927.htm
Effective advocacy comes from research, planning, and preparation. A
pre-meeting worksheet
(http://www.wrightslaw.com/info/premeeting.worksheet.pdf)
  helpful before going into an ARD meeting to help parents and advocates
organize;
a Parent Agenda (http://www.wrightslaw.com/info/iep.sample.agenda.pdf) is also a
helpful way to provide the school with a list of concerns and questions prior to
the meeting so school members of your child's team will have time to prepare.
Additionally, when there are disputes between the school and
parents, parents need to understand their legal rights. "True advocacy is about
improving the lives of children, and ensuring that they become independent,
productive, taxpaying citizens who belong to the community in which they live."

*"Parenting Through the IEP: Understanding the IEP Process"*
A powerpoint presentation prepared by Torey Lewis, a local parent-advocate, to
help parents understand and navigate through the special education process. Go
to www.hotautismnetwork.org/links or
http://tinyurl.com/3n3lnbjto access the presentation.

*Online Degree Program for Students with Autism*
http://www.sage.edu/sca/academics/achieve/
The Sage Colleges and Excelsior College in New York have collaborated to create
the Sage Achieve degree, an online program that caters to students on the autism
spectrum.The program is highly flexible and can be customized to meet a
student's particular disailities, but it is as rigorous as any other degree. The
program leads to a B.A. in Liberal Studies with an emphasis in
Computer Science. For more information on the Sage Achieve degree program,
go to http://www.sage.edu/sca/academics/achieve/webinars/.

*SURVEY: What social dilemmas do young adults with autism confront?* -
Public Insight Network and The New York Times
http://www.publicinsightnetwork.org/form/the-new-york-times/fea5d014c777/what-so\
cial-dilemmas-do-young-adults-with-autism-confront American Public Media is
collaborating with the The New York Times on a series called "Growing up with
Autism.'' As part of the series, they are gathering information on the social
dilemmas faced by young adults, as well as those who interact with them. They
ask the question:* As these children age, what challenges and rewards are in
store for both them and their communities? *If you are a person with ASD, family
member, friend or more-than-friend, co-worker, fellow student, etc, you are
welcome to
contribute to the survey. Click on the link to go to the survey site.
*
**FREE PODCAST: Planning for Students with ASD in the General Ed Classroom*
How do you plan for a student with autism to spend time in a general
education classroom? This discussion condenses presentations by Craig Kennedy,
Mark Wolery, and Carolyn Hughes of Vanderbilt University and Debra Kamps of the
University of Kansas.
It began as a Town Hall Meeting at the CEC 2010 Convention & Expo in
Nashville. Go to http://www.youtube.com/user/CECHeadquarters#p/u/0/2RoXeq8GK7Y
to listen.

*
*FUNdraisers:*
*Sunday, October 2nd, 2 - 4 pm: Three Spoons Yogurt in Waco for the
Children'sSpecial Needs Network*
Go in, mention the Childrens Special Needs Network, and 25% of any purchase will
benefit the Childrens Special Needs Network!

*Monday, October 3rd, ALL DAY: Chili's in Waco (5804 Bosque Blvd) for the Heart
of Texas Autism Network: *
*Download and print your flyer and 10% of any purchase* -- dine in or take out
-- including gift card or other purchases* --- will be designated to the Heart
of Texas Autism Network! go to
http://www.hotautismnetwork.org/files/ChilisFlyerOctober2011.doc to print the
flyer.


*Other Events and Activities:*
For more events and activities go to
http://www.hotautismnetwork.org/activities.html

*Thursday, September 29, 7 pm, Waco;*
*Helping Hands Special Needs Ministry Parent Support Group - First Baptist
Church Woodway*
101 Ritchie Road (Highway 84 and Ritchie Road exit); Support group meets in the
Parlor of the church's Ministry Activity Center
Meeting Topic: Local resources for special needs families
Childcare provided; RSVP to Janice Stewart, 254-717-8744

*Sunday, October 2, 2 pm - 5 pm; Redwood Shelter, Cameron Park, Waco; **Waco's
First Annual Buddy Walk for Down Syndrome!*
The Heart of Texas Down Syndrome Network is having its first annual Buddy Walk
for Down Syndrome! HOTDSN For more information and to register, go to
www.hotdsn.org.
*
*
*Tuesday, October 18, Waco: *
*Children's Special Needs Network Volunteer Orientation*
South Waco Library, 2737 S. 18th St., Waco TX (in the Conference Room)
Children's Special Needs Network is a 501c3 serving families with special needs
children in 30 counties throughout Central Texas. The organization also provides
Respites in Temple, Killeen, Hillsboro and Waco. *Tuesday, October 18, 6-8:30
pm**,* there will be a volunteer orientation for anyone who may have an interest
in volunteering.
Applications will be at the orientation if people wish to apply. Background
checks will be run on all volunteers.
Contact wacorespite@... for more information.

*Saturday, October 22, Waco: *
*Children's Special Needs Network Fall Festival, 1 - 4 pm*
The Children's Special Needs Network (CSNN) is putting on a *Fall Harvest
Festival for families with special needs children* at the Crestview Church of
Christ Community Center in Waco (7129 Delhi).
Kids activities, games, arts & crafts fun, Child ID and child safety seat
inspection, resource safety fair, Angel Paws Therapy Dogs, Woodway Fire
Department's Fire Truck, and more will be onsite. Refreshments will be
available. There is no charge for attendance but a donation of a small,
unwrapped toy for children who will attend the CSNN December Respite or canned
goods for area food banks is appreciated. *Volunteers are needed for Fall
Festival:  Thursday, October 20, 5-9 at Crestview Church of Christ Community
Center (preparation),* and for *Saturday, October 22.*  Contact
Melinda Bell at mbell@... for more details.

*Saturday, November 12, 11 am - 4 pm; *
*Wild West Resource Round-Up for Special Needs Families at Belton Lake BLORA
Ranch*
The Cowboy-themed Outreach event will feature a performance by self-advocate
Kolby Hobson, a 12-year old with Autism. He and his father will be demonstrating
Kolby's horseback riding skills acquired through Horsin' Around at BLORA Ranch.
Events will also feature Resource and information booths, games, bounce houses,
petting zoo, etc! Again, this is a free event *for families with special needs
children*.
For more information contact Shannon Martinez at
shannon.martinez352@....

*Arc of McLennan County Teen & Young Adults Group*

The Arc of McLennan County has organized a group for individuals with
intellectual and developmental disabilities who are in high school or have
recently transitioned out of school (10th grade to age 26). Generally, the group
meets one Saturday a month at various locations.There is no fee to enroll or
apply for the program, *but application is mandatory, *to ensure that sufficient
staff resources to meet the needs of all participants is available.
For additional information or to apply call Tom Pearson or Ovida Williams at
254-756-7491


*UPCOMING CONFERENCES:*
*
*
For more conference information go to*
http://www.hotautismnetwork.org/conferencesandstudies.html

*September 29-30, Austin: Designing and Implementing a Behavioral Language
Intervention Program Based on the VB-MAPP (Verbal Behavior Milestones Assessment
and Placement Program)*
*PRESENTER: MARC SUNDBERG, BCBA-D*
Registration: https://apps.source360group.com/ctacreg/
Mark Sundberg is an internationally known expert in the field of autism and
behavior analysis, the author of the VB-MAPP and co-author of "*ABLLS: Teaching
Language to Children with Autism or Other Developmental Disabilities."*

=====================================================

*October 6, Sulfur Springs: Northeast Texas Autism Conference*
Registration:
http://www.reg8.net/users/0012/docs/autismconfflyer-r.pdf
*Featuring Dr TEMPLE GRANDIN and ALEX PLANK*
Dr Grandin is the world-famous animal scientist, autism self-advocate,
author and the subject of the Emmy-award-winning HBO biopic *"Temple
Grandin"*. Alex Plank is the founder of WrongPlanet.net, an online community
with more than 55,000 members, for individuals with Asperger Syndrome and
Autism.

=====================================================

*October 13-15, Houston: 20th Annual Autism Conference*
http://autism.esc2.net/conference/registration.asp
Schedule:
http://autism.esc2.net/conference/documents/AutismConfSchedule2011_000.pdf
*Texas Autism Conference, sponsored by the Texas Education Agency, is a
statewide conference for parents, school personnel and other professionals
working with individuals within the Autism spectrum. Keynote speaker: John Elder
Robison, bestselling author whose recent titles include:  "**Look Me in the
Eye*, *my life with Asperger’s*", and "*Be Different, Adventures of a
free-range Aspergian".*
**======================================================*
*
*October 14: Transition Fair, Belton: "Success is not a Destination, It's a
Journey"*
Transition Fair at UMHB for students receiving special education services, to
explore options available after high school graduation. Schools in the Region12
area are invited to bring students. *Programs and their representatives from 
various post-secondary schools, training programs, and adult service agencies
will be showcased. *
*Register at www.esc12.net, session 37162. For more information contact Sharron
Stephenson at *sstephenson@..., or 254.297.1152
*
**======================================================*
**
*October 15, Belton: "I*nKidable Possibilities Annual Conference"
  FREE!!!! *Children's Special Needs Network's Annual InKidAble conference, with
FREE sessions, FREE childcare, and FREE lunch ... *workshops on a variety of
issues affecting families with special needs children, addressing educational,
physical, emotional, nutritional,  financial and other areas.
Exhibitors will showcase a wealth of resources to meet diverse needs.
Activities for children and free childcare will be provided, as well as lunch
for children and adults -- all at no charge. Register online at www.esc12.net,
session *37164.*
**
*========================================================*
**
*October 19-20-21, Houston: 12th Annual Chronic Illness and Disability
Conference: Transition from Pediatric to Adult-based Care*
*October 19: Parent/Youth/Professional Panel Discussion/Research Day.
*Attendance for the Panel event is free, but registration is required.
*A limited number of scholarships are available for children/youth with special
health care needs (CYSHCN) and their parents/guardians for October 20-21. *
*Contact Valerie Bowman at TRACS@...  for details.*
*Brochure/registration: *
http://www.baylorcme.org/pdfs/12th_Annual_Chronic_Illness_and_Disability_Brochur\
e.pdf
More information at: http://www.baylorcme.org/search/detail.cfm?cme=832

=======================================================
  *October 20, Dallas: Wrightslaw, Special Education Law and Advocacy
Training Workshop **Registration: *http://wrightslaw.eventbrite.com/
Featuring Pete Wright, Esq., one of the nation's leading experts in Special
Education, will focus on special education law, rights and
responsibilities; tests and measurements to measure progress & regression; IEPs;
and will introduce tactics and strategies for effective advocacy.

==================================================

*Anita Karney*
akkarney@...
*


[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

YOUR LIFE ... YOUR WAY: IT'S ABOUT CHOICE
  HEART OF TEXAS AUTISM NETWORK NEXT MEETING
MONDAY, November 14th,6:30 - 8 pm
Peggy Cosner, Executive Director of  HEART OF CENTRAL TEXAS INDEPENDENT LIVING
CENTER

Life is about choices: choosing where to live, work, and take part in the
community. HOCTIL promotes independence for persons with disabilities through
self-determination and advocacy for equal access and active participation in the
community.
HOCTIL (www.hoctilc.org/#!vstc0=services) will help develop consumer driven
service plans with individuals of all ages, disabilities, dreams & goals.
Peggy is a positive, solution-oriented person with an inspiring message.
It's sure to be a lively and interesting meeting!
HOCTIL has an office in Waco; the main office is located in Belton. The Belton
office also houses the  "Cool Tools" store, which is very cool indeed, and worth
the drive to Belton to see (and shop) all the incredibly intriguing devices that
enhance daily life for anyone! Peggy will bring examples of some of the items.
  Childcare will be available, with RSVP ; contact  Natalie Passanante  at
natalie_passanante@... to make a reservation for childcare. Driving and
parking directions can be found at
http://www.hotautismnetwork.org/directions.html  Meeting Location:   Baylor
School of Social Work building, 811 Washington Avenue on the corner of
Washington and 8th St., Room 919.
For printable directions go to http://www.hotautismnetwork.org/directions.html.
Free childcare is available with a reservation; contact Natalie Passanante at
natalie_passanante@... to request childcare.
  If you have not previously registered your children , please download and fill
out the form found at
http://www.hotautismnetwork.org/files/Parent_Name.245153844.doc  and send the
registration form and your RSVP request to Natalie at
natalie_passanante@....
          ====================================================

  SUPPERCLUBS “
  Tuesday, November 29th, 6 pm:  “Teen Plus” SupperClub  Cheddars,   4208
Franklin Avenue, Waco  This group is more focused towards teens (13+) and young
adults with ASD who are independent or close to being independent in ordering,
waiting, and paying for their meal. This should also include those that need
little to no assistance in leaving the group to go to the restroom. This group
rotates locations and generally chooses each month where they want to meet.
Due to Thanksgiving Holiday, the group is meeting on the fifth Tuesday of the
month in November instead of the usual fourth Tuesday.
Contact Lisa Plemons at lisabplemons@... for more information, and to RSVP.

==========================================================

HOTAN PROGRAMS/ACTIVITIES:  ADVOCACY 101 For Special Ed

Are you new to the special education process, or having difficulty understanding
or getting the services your child needs? Then come join us for Advocacy 101!
This FREE presentation gives you tips on how to advocate for your child, build
communication with your school, learn your rights as a parent, and provides an
overview of special education law (both Federal and State). You will come away
with a wealth of information as well as a list of resources!
This presentation is by Torey Lewis, a local parent-advocate. Ms. Lewis is a
mother of 3 children, two with special needs. She has successfully advocated for
her own children, as well as assisted other families with preparation for ARD
meetings; she is currently receiving her Master's in Special Education with a
focus in BCBA (behavior therapy) and Autism certification through Texas Tech,
and has gone through Special Education Law and Advocacy training presented by
Wrightslaw.
Two Advocacy 101 sessions will be presented at the Texas Ranger Museum Education
Annex (located behind the Museum): Monday, November 28, 2011 at 6:00 p.m.
Saturday, December 3, 2011 at 10:00 a.m. (Repeats session from November 28)
Please R.S.V.P. to Anita Karney (anitakarney@...) or Torey
Lewis (tlewis1122@...) to ensure adequate handouts can be provided.

  ==============
  ART CLASS for children/youth with ASD!
Thursday November 3, 4 - 5:30 pm
  Betty Vela, owner of B's Art School in Hewitt, is partnering with the Heart of
Texas Autism Network and organizing an art class for children with autism, on
the first and third Thursday of the month, beginning  November 3rd  from 4 to
5:30 pm, and continuing through December. Cost: only $10 per class, which
includes all art materials! This is a fantastic opportunity to experience the
joy of creating and expressing through art! For more information contact 
Jacquelyn  at makeadiff@....

    ==============
  GARDENING!
   Master Gardener Lynn DeMuynck  is leading children/youth in adventures with
plants during the Fall season.  The class will next meet on Saturday, November
19,  at 1:30 pm. Master Gardener Lynn DeMuynck is leading a Gardening class for
kids/youth with ASD.
The Heart of Texas Autism Network is helping care for two of the planters in
Waco’s WE CARE Community Garden downtown, at MHMR's Helping Others Take
Initiative location on 312 S. 4th Street.
On Sunday, October 23, HOTAN had a Planting Day at the Garden. Participants got
seeds, potting soil and instructions to take home with them, along with
information on plant varieties and planting schedules for this area. Under
Lynn's guidance, everyone placed pansies, broccoli and lettuce plants in the
ground as well as spinach, radish, swiss chard, carrots, more lettuce, beets,
and other seeds.
  Gardening Classes are scheduled for Saturday, November 19, Saturday December 5,
and Saturday December 17 at 1:30pm . The class will meet at a nearby location
(Abbey Glenn apartments) and have more hands-on learning led by Lynn DeMuynck To
sign up or for more information, contact anitakarney@....

=================
  Baylor Homecoming Parade
FYI, HOTAN was a participant in the Baylor Homecoming Parade on Saturday,
November 5.
Thanks to Allen Samuels of Waco, which provided the truck; Betsy Klesse and
Jacquelyn Baumann who organized, decorated and created the handouts for the
crowds; HOTAN truckdriver Chris Klesse, and Melinda Bell, HOTAN's "Truck Mom";
she and the kids sat in the back, laughed and waved as the crowds cheered!
Jacquelyn, Syrenthia Rice and Anita walked alongside, handing out candy and
information about HOTAN's 2nd Annual Mardi Gras Celebration of Art and the 5th
Annual Walk for Autism. (Photos may be found on HOTAN's facebook
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Heart-of-Texas-Autism-Network-HOTAN/10053585339312\
7 or global website http://www.hotautismnetwork.org/baylorparade.html  )
===================================================================

    2nd Annual Mardi Gras Celebration of Art!
   Once again we are celebrating the power of art to connect, inspire and lift up
all!   This regional art competition, show and sale is open to  art students of
all ages and abilities ; entries will be judged and prizes awarded in the  Mardi
Gras Celebration of Art weekend ,  Friday February 17 and Saturday Feburary 18,
2012.    Mardi Gras Themed Art (open to High School students only):  The
deadline for  High School  (grades 9-12) art students to register their intent
to enter the Competition for a Mardi Gras themed artwork is fast approaching! 
REGISTER BY DECEMBER 1st!   Artwork is due by December 16, 2011.  Winners will
be notified (via email) by January 1, 2012. The top winner will receive $500,
and the art will be used by the Mardi Gras Celebration to represent this
year’s Celebration!! Go to
http://www.mardigrasartwaco.org/highschoolartcompetition.html for registration
entry form and more information.
  The general art competition  is open to  all students;
   Students in age categories Pre-K to K, 5-7, 8-10, and 11-13 will be awarded
overall 1st, 2ndand 3 rd prizes; students 14-18 and 19+ will be awarded prizes
in the following categories: Drawing/Painting, Fiber art, Jewelry, Photography,
and Sculpture/Pottery.
  Entries are on a first-come first-served basis, with a limited number of
entries per category.   All student art must be pre-registered by January 1st,
2012 .
Go to http://www.mardigrasartwaco.org/participantinfo.html for registration and
more information; to volunteer, donate or for more information contact  Betsy at
meklesse@...  or  Jacquelyn at makeadiff2010@... .
  The fantastic "Super Friday" Mardi Gras celebration party and the next day's
Family Celebration will take place at the Palladium in Waco (729 Austin Avenue,
across from the Hippodrome Theatre). Funds raised will benefit the Heart of
Texas Autism Network.

The 5th Annual Walk for Autism  will be held on the campus of Baylor University,
at the Fountain Mall, on  Sunday, April 15, 2012.  For more information and/or
to volunteer, contact Anita at anitakarney@....

  ========================================================
  NEWS AND ACTIVITIES:
REMINDER: SATURDAY, Nov. 12, 11 am - 4 pm:   Wild West Resource Round-Up for
Special Needs Families at Belton Lake BLORA Ranch 
http://www.meetup.com/Fort-Hood-Children-with-Autism-and-Aspergers/events/321828\
42/?a=ea1.2_lnm&rv=ea1.2 The Cowboy-themed Outreach event will feature a
performance by 12-year old Kolby Hobson, who has Autism. He and his father will
be demonstrating Kolby's horseback riding skills acquired through lessons at
Horsin' Around at BLORA Ranch. Other youth equestrian teams will also perform.
There will be free horseback rides, games, activities and souvenirs for the
kids, and a resource fair for families. Covered picnic areas and food vendors
will be onsite.
Events will also feature Resource and information booths, games, bounce houses,
petting zoo, etc! Again, this is a free event.For more information contact
Shannon Martinez at shannon.martinez352@....
(You can read about BLORA Ranch, and Kolby Hobson, at
http://www.kdhnews.com/news/story.aspx?s=47674&q=kolby+hobson ) 
===========================================

  NEW MODEL IEP FORM  -- public input/feedback needed;
  DEADLINE NOVEMBER 7.  TEA has a draft version of a standardised IEP form that
will be made available to all school districts.TEA is asking for public comment
on the form until November 7th, before it is revised into its final version.
Look at the Draft form at http://tinyurl.com/TEXAS-IEP-FORM and take the survey
at http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/IEPmodelForm =


================================
REMINDER: Special Ed PTA Initial Meeting Monday, November 7, 9:30 am: Georgetown
A new Special Ed PTA (SEPTA) is forming for the Central Texas Region. SEPTAs
primary focus are special education issues and advocacy for children with
disabilities. A SEPTA provides families with an organizational structure,
resources and the opportunity to be a collective voice for children. One can
have membership in both a SEPTA and the local school PTAs. Download a flyer at 
http://tinyurl.com/6lyjw88

=================================
NEW IDEA MANUAL!  I  DEA, The Manual for Parents and Students about Special
Education Services in Texas, 2012    
http://www.thearcoftexas.org/<http://www.thearcoftexas.org/site/PageServer?pagen\
ame=ARC_Idea> http://www.disabilityrightstx.org/ The newest version of  The IDEA
Manual  is available for FREE to download/print from the Arc of Texas and
Disability Rights Texas.   The 2012 IDEA Manual is an invaluable resource for
families trying to understand the Texas special education system.
A Spanish version is also available at the Arc of Texas website. The manual
incorporates Federal and state laws including, the Individuals with Disabilities
Education Act (IDEA), current Federal regulations and current state laws through
the 2011 Texas legislative session. The Texas Education Agency will be
developing new rules required by laws passed in the 2011 legislative session;
for up to date rules and TEA Guidance documents, go to
www.tea.state.tx.us/special.ed  <http://www.tea.state.tx.us/special.ed>

   =================================
  Thursday, November 10, 7 pm: 'Helping Hands' Parent Support Group  First
Baptist Church of Woodway, meeting in the Parlor at the Ministry Activity Center
(MAC) 101 Ritchie Road, Waco, TX 76712
"Special Needs --- Caring for Loved Ones Under Unique Circumstances" -- Keith
Reed, New York Life Keith Reed, an agent with New York Life, will discuss
financial planning issues that affect special needs families.
For more information contact Janice Stewart at janccc@..., or Jalon
Schoonover at jalon_schoonover@...

  =================================
  Thursday, November 17, 7 pm:
  SPECIAL NEEDS SCOUTING FAMILY INFORMATION MEETING!
  VFW in Hewitt, 725 Sun Valley Blvd  Special Needs Scouting for children/youth
with autism  or other disabilities   is taking off in Waco!
There will be a meeting on  Thursday, November 17 at 7 pm  at the Hewitt VFW
hall at 725 Sun Val­ley Blvd (next to the Dairy Queen) for families with
special needs kids/youth. Leaders have been identified, the VFW is sponsoring a
troop and providing the location, and other scouts are available for mentoring
...
Scouting groups may formed if there are enough (minimum of 5) participants in
each age category, for:  Cub Scouts (boys from first through fifth grades, OR 7
to 10 years of age),  Boy Scouts (10 years and completed the fifth grade, or 11
up to 18 years old. If your special-needs child enrolls before they are 18, they
may stay involved with the Scout Troop for as long as they wish),  Co-ed Venture
Troop (14 years old OR 13 and completed eighth grade, and under 21 years of
age). Contact anitakarney@... for more information.

  ==================================================
SURVEY for Siblings and Family Members
SIBscape (www.sibscape.org), is an organization for siblings of people with
developmental disabilities, and their families.  They have created surveys to
assist them as they work to increase and improve programs and services for
families. One survey is only for siblings; the second is for any family member.
Sibling Survey: http://www.sibscape.org/sibling_survey/, to help in the
development of programs for sibings.
Educational Program Survey: http://www.allourideas.org/sibscape_educationto help
gather information on which topics would be most helpful.
===================================================

Tuesday, November 15, noon - 5 pm,  Austin:
•Children's Health: Environmental Contributors  to Developmental and
Intellectual Disabilities
<http://www.healthandenvironment.org/initiatives/learning/events/lddi_meetings
•
Dell Children's Medical Center of Central Texas; Austin, Texas
National experts in various fields will discuss the latest research linking
environmental exposures and early neurological development.  This workshop is an
opportunity for cross- disciplinary discussions among those in environmental,
medical, and research fields as well as those involved with health advocacy and
public policy.
  Speakers include
• Anna Penn Hundley, MEd, Autism Treatment Center of Texas
• Claudia Miller, MD, MS, University of Texas Health Science Center at San
Antonio
• David Baskin, MD, The Methodist Hospital Research Institute Program (invited)
• Jane Ripperger-Suhler, MD, UT Southwestern at Seton Family of Hospitals,
Austin
• Richard Finnell, PhD, Dell Children's Medical Center
• Suruchi Chandra, MD, True Health Medical Center 
===================================================
•December 2-3, Austin:   2011 Statewide Parent Leadership Conference: "Beyond
the ARD: Parents Engaged for   Positive Change"  
http://www.partnerstx.org/LeadershipConference/index.html
•The conference will examine challenges facing families of children and young
adults with disabilities that extend beyond the school day and beyond the school
years.
Topics  will include: A Look Across the Parenting Life Span, Effective Advocacy
and Leadership  Skills, Guardianship and Estate Planning, Sexuality, State and 
Community Services and Resources, Parents as Case Managers, Behavior Management,
Family Life,  Stress Management, and When the School Bus Doesn’t Stop at Your
House Any More.  Stipends are available.  
=====================================================
•
•December 8 - 10, Dallas:   2011 Statewide Parental Involvement Conference 
http://www.implanners.com/nclb/
•Parents will receive resources and strategies for improving parental
involvement skills, as well as enhancing their children’s educational
opportunities.
In addition, the conference will feature sessions by TEA staff on topics ranging
from NCLB (No Child Left Behind) guidelines to how parents can become more
involved in the education of their child.
Educators will receive tips and guidance on improving relationships with parents
as well as training on rules and regulations.
  ========================================================
•
•SURVEY: Special Needs Resources in the Heart of Central Texas
•Does your area have anyone offering equine (horse) therapy? Swimming for
special  needs? Music classes? Is it easy, or difficult, to find a medical
specialist for your special- needs family member where you live?
This online survey (https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/SpecialNeedsResources
•will  help identify resource needs throughout the Heart of Central Texas area,
and highlight opportunities for growth. Please help towards building a better
community for all!
  =====================================================
•
•  Anita Karney
• akkarney@...

Hello,


Please scroll down for news and information.
If you would like to be removed from this email distribution, please reply
to waconewstouse@....


  Thanks!


REMINDER:
HEART OF TEXAS AUTISM NETWORK EVENTS:

YOUR LIFE ... YOUR WAY: IT'S ABOUT CHOICE
HEART OF TEXAS AUTISM NETWORK NEXT MEETING
MONDAY, November 14th,
6:30 - 8 pm *
Peggy Cosner, Executive Director of HEART OF CENTRAL TEXAS INDEPENDENT LIVING
CENTER
Life is about choices: choosing where to live, work, and take part in the
community. HOCTIL promotes independence for persons with disabilities
through self-determination and advocacy for equal access and active
participation in the community.
HOCTIL (www.hoctilc.org/#!vstc0=services) will help develop consumer driven
service plans with individuals of all ages, disabilities, dreams & goals.
Peggy is a positive, solution-oriented person with an inspiring message.
It's sure to be a lively and interesting meeting!
HOCTIL has an office in Waco; the main office is located in Belton. The
Belton office also houses the *"Cool Tools" *store, which is very cool
indeed, and worth the drive to Belton to see (and shop) all the incredibly
intriguing devices that enhance daily life for anyone! Peggy will bring
examples of some of the items.
*Childcare will be available, with RSVP*; contact *Natalie Passanante *at
natalie_passanante@... to make a reservation for childcare. Driving
and parking directions can be found at
http://www.hotautismnetwork.org/directions.html
*Meeting Location: *
Baylor School of Social Work building, 811 Washington Avenue on the corner
of Washington and 8th St., Room 919.
  For printable directions go to
http://www.hotautismnetwork.org/directions.html.
Free childcare is available with a reservation; contact Natalie Passanante
at natalie_passanante@... to request childcare.
*If you have not previously registered your children*, please download and
fill out the form found at
http://www.hotautismnetwork.org/files/Parent_Name.245153844.doc  and send
the registration form and your RSVP request to Natalie at
natalie_passanante@....


*Saturday, November 5: BAYLOR HOMECOMING PARADE!*
*Heart of Texas Autism Network will be in the Baylor Homecoming
Parade! *Parents
and kids will ride in style, waving to the crowd as part of this cherished
Waco tradition. If you want to ride in the parade, contact Jacquelyn at
makeadiff2010@.... The Parade will be Saturday, November 5.

*====================================================*
*
*
SUPPERCLUBS

“First Monday” SupperClub  Monday, November 7th, 6:00pm – Chili’s

*Monday, November 7th, 6 pm
**Chili's, 5804 Bosque Blvd, Waco **(*254) 776-8330 <%28254%29%20776-8330>
The “First Monday” group is for all ages, but is more focused on those
under 13 and/or those that aren't quite as independent in ordering,
waiting, and paying for their meal. The kids all sit together with
volunteers, while parents sit elsewhere in the restaurant. Older kids will
sit together at one table with volunteers, and the younger group will be
together with volunteers. Contact Lisa Plemons at lisabplemons@... for
more information, and to RSVP.
*Chili's is  partnering with the Heart of Texas Autism Network the first
Monday of every month *.. bring in the flyer
(http://www.hotautismnetwork.org/files/ChilisFlyerNOVEMBER2011.doc<http://www.ho\
tautismnetwork.org/files/ChilisFlyerOctober2011.doc>
)
and *10% of any purchase you make on November 7th will be donated to the
Heart of Texas Autism Network. *This applies all day, dine-in or carry-out,
as well as purchasing gift cards (great for stocking stuffers!). *REMEMBER*,
you must bring in the flyer.

“Teen Plus” SupperClub  Tuesday, November 29th, 6:00pm – Cheddars
*Monday, November 29th, 6 pm
**4208 Franklin Avenue, Waco
*This group is more focused towards teens (13+) and young adults with ASD
who are independent or close to being independent in ordering, waiting, and
paying for their meal. This should also include those that need little to
no assistance in leaving the group to go to the restroom. This group
rotates locations and generally chooses each month where they want to meet.
Due to Thanksgiving Holiday, the group is meeting on the fifth Tuesday of
the month in November instead of the usual fourth Tuesday. Contact Lisa
Plemons at lisabplemons@... for more information, and to RSVP.


==========================================================
*


NEW ACTIVITIES:


*

*ART CLASS for children/youth with ASD! *

*Thursday November 3, 4 - 5:30 pm*

Betty Vela, owner of B's Art School in Hewitt, is partnering with the Heart
of Texas Autism Network and organizing an art class for children with
autism, on the first and third Thursday of the month, beginning *November
3rd *from 4 to 5:30 pm, and continuing through December. Cost: only $10 per
class, which includes all art materials! This is a fantastic opportunity to
experience the joy of creating and expressing through art! For more
information contact *Jacquelyn  at makeadiff@....

*

*SCOUTING!
*Boy Scout troop is ready to roll! Leaders have been identified, the Hewitt
VFW will sponsor the troop's meeting location and other local troops are
available to mentor the Scouts. Contact anitakarney@... for
more information.


*GARDENING!
**Master Gardener Lynn DeMuynck* is leading children/youth in adventures
with plants during the Fall season. *The class will next meet on Saturday,
November 19, *at 1:30 pm. Master Gardener Lynn DeMuynck is leading a
Gardening class for kids/youth with ASD.

The Heart of Texas Autism Network is helping care for two of the planters
in Waco’s WE CARE Community Garden downtown, at MHMR's Helping Others Take
Initiative location on 312 S. 4th Street.
On Sunday, October 23, HOTAN had a Planting Day at the Garden. Participants
got seeds, potting soil and instructions to take home with them, along with
information on plant varieties and planting schedules for this area. Under
Lynn's guidance, everyone placed pansies, broccoli and lettuce plants in
the ground as well as spinach, radish, swiss chard, carrots, more lettuce,
beets, and other seeds.
*Gardening Classes are scheduled for Saturday, November 19, Saturday
December 5, and Saturday December 17 at 1:30pm*. The class will meet at a
nearby location (Abbey Glenn apartments) and have more hands-on learning
led by Lynn DeMuynck To sign up or for more information, contact
anitakarney@....

===================================================================


*2nd Annual Mardi Gras Celebration of Art!
**Once again we are celebrating the power of art to connect, inspire and
lift up all! *
This regional art competition, show and sale is open to *art students of
all ages and abilities*; entries will be judged and prizes awarded in
the *Mardi
Gras Celebration of Art weekend*, *Friday February 17 and Saturday Feburary
18, 2012. *
*Mardi Gras Themed Art (open to High School students only): *The deadline
for *High School* (grades 9-12) art students to register their intent to
enter the Competition for a Mardi Gras themed artwork is fast
approaching! *REGISTER
BY DECEMBER 1st! **Artwork is due by December 16, 2011. *Winners will be
notified (via email) by January 1, 2012. The top winner will receive $500,
and the art will be used by the Mardi Gras Celebration to represent this
year’s Celebration!! Go to
http://www.mardigrasartwaco.org/highschoolartcompetition.html for
registration entry form and more information.
*The general art competition* is open to *all students; * Students in age
categories Pre-K to K, 5-7, 8-10, and 11-13 will be awarded overall
1st, 2ndand 3
rd prizes; students 14-18 and 19+ will be awarded prizes in the following
categories: Drawing/Painting, Fiber art, Jewelry, Photography, and
Sculpture/Pottery.
*Entries are on a first-come first-served basis, with a limited number of
entries per category.* *All student art must be pre-registered by January
1st, 2012*.
Go to http://www.mardigrasartwaco.org/participantinfo.html for registration
and more information; to volunteer, donate or for more information
contact *Betsy
at meklesse@...* or *Jacquelyn at makeadiff2010@...*.

*The fantastic "Super Friday" Mardi Gras celebration party and the next
day's Family Celebration will take place at the Palladium in Waco (729
Austin Avenue, across from the Hippodrome Theatre). Funds raised will
benefit the Heart of Texas Autism Network. *
*
*
*The 5th Annual Walk for Autism *will be held on the campus of Baylor
University, at the Fountain Mall, on *Sunday, April 15, 2012. *For more
information and/or to volunteer, contact Anita at
anitakarney@....

*========================================================*
*
*
*NEWS:
*

*60 Minutes: Apps for Autism
*http://www.cbsnews.com/video/watch/?id=7385686n&tag=pop;videos
‎A recent episode on CBS' "60 Minutes" showed how devices like the iPad other
tablet computer apps are helping nonverbal people with autism communicate
and learn. For a list of apps (and funding resources) for autism and
special needs, go to http://www.hotautismnetwork.org/files/Apps2.doc.


==============================


*Special Ed PTA for Central Texas
*A new Special Ed PTA (SEPTA) is forming for the Central Texas Region. SEPTAs
primary focus are special education issues and advocacy for children with
disabilities. A SEPTA provides families with an organizational structure,
resources and the opportunity to be a collective voice for children. One
can have membership in both a SEPTA and the local school PTAs. Download a
flyer at *http://tinyurl.com/6lyjw88*


===============================|
*
TEA's New Model IEP Form: Public Comment requested for Draft Version Before
November 7th!*

A new law (Senate Bill 1788 was passed in the last legislative session)
requires the Texas Education Agency (TEA) to develop a model IEP form for
use by school districts no later than December 1, 2011.

The draft model form at  http://tinyurl.com/TEXAS-IEP-FORM sets out the IEP
content that is required for all students with disabilities and also
includes several supplemental sections that must be completed if applicable
to the specific student.

TEA is now soliciting public comment from interested stakeholders
throughout the state on the draft model form through November 7, 2011. To
take the survey, go to http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/IEPmodelForm.

To read SB 1788, go to

http://www.legis.state.tx.us/tlodocs/82R/billtext/html/SB01788F.htm

=======================================

*October is National Anti-Bullying Awareness Month
*Bullying is the most common form of violence in schools, and bullying
against students with disabilities is a federal matter. Parents may
initiate administrative due process procedures under IDEA, Section 504, or
Title II. Individuals and organizations also may file complaints with OCR
(Office for Civil Rights). In addition, an individual or organization may
file a complaint alleging a violation of IDEA under separate procedures
with the state educational agency.

*BULLYING and AUTISM: Interactive Autism Network*
The Interactive Autism Network (IAN) Research project is launching a survey
focused on bullying and children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD).
The *Bullying
and School Experiences of Children with ASD Survey* will collect
information on a variety of bullying situations from a large number of
families to explore the extent of these problems in the lives of children
with ASD. Researchers need information from families of children with a
wide range of experiences in order to make comparisons and evaluate risk
factors. For more information and/or to participate, go to
www.iancommunity.org/cs/ian_research/bullying_survey.
*More information and resources about bullying can be found at *
http://stopschoolbullyingnow.com/resources.php
http://www.wrightslaw.com/info/harassment.index.htm
http://nichcy.org/schoolage/behavior/bullying

======================================================
*
*
*UPCOMING ACTIVITIES:*
*(For more activities, events, meetings, etc go to www.hotautismnetwork.org)
*
*
*
*Saturday, October 29, Temple: *
*Fall Festival for Families with Disabilities, 2 - 4:30 pm*
*Central Texas Christian School*, *4141 W. FM 93 Temple, Tx. *
Games, crafts, snacks, face painting, hay ride, Child ID, Bike-R-Treat fun
with American Legion Riders, and more. Again, this is for families with
special needs children.

======================================================

*
*

*Sunday, October 30, San Antonio*:

*20* <http://www.disabilitysa.org/accessability-fest.htm>*11 AccessAbility
Fest* <http://www.disabilitysa.org/accessability-fest.htm>

http://www.disabilitysa.org/accessability-fest.htm

12 p.m. - 5:00 p.m., Morgan's Wonderland

5223 David Edwards Drive

San Antonio, TX 78233

The 5th annual AccessAbility Fest is a free event at Morgan's
Wonderland<http://morganswonderland.org/>
. The festival is free; there will be entertainment, food, games and
activities, information and resource exhibits, and more!  Download a pdf
flyer about the event at
http://www.disabilitysa.org/content-files/2011%20Program.pdf .

======================================================

*
*

*Saturday, November 12, 11 am - 4 pm; *

*Wild West Resource Round-Up for Special Needs Families at Belton Lake
BLORA Ranch*
The Cowboy-themed Outreach event will feature a performance by
self-advocate Kolby Hobson, a 12-year old with Autism. He and his father
will be demonstrating Kolby's horseback riding skills acquired through
Horsin' Around at BLORA Ranch. Events will also feature Resource and
information booths, games, bounce houses, petting zoo, etc! Again, this is
a free event *for families with special needs children*.
For more information contact Shannon Martinez at
shannon.martinez352@....

======================================================

Thursday, November 3 and Friday, November 4:
  PATH Training in WACO
8:30 am – 4:30 pm; Austin Avenue Methodist Church, 1300 Austin Avenue, Waco

PATH (Planning Alternative Tomorrows with Hope) is a powerful
future-planning tool, which helps identify what a person wants in their
future with step-by-step strategies to work toward that future.

PATH also establishes a built-in support network to help accomplish goals.
Microboards will often use the PATH process to identify and plan how to
implement the goals and aspirations of the individual.
The PATH process follows the person-directed planning process by: identifying
supports; accommodating the individual’s style of interaction; empowering
the individual;  engaging the support of those closest to the individual.
Register at
http://www.thearcoftexas.org/site/Calendar/1631373195?view=Detail&id=100401;
  *STIPENDS ARE AVAILABLE!* *Contact Christy Ogle with questions at (417)
667-1887 or cogle@...*
*
*===================================================

*
*

*Tuesday, November 15, noon - 5 pm,  Austin:*

*Children's Health: Environmental Contributors
<http://www.healthandenvironment.org/initiatives/learning/events/lddi_meetings>t\
o
Developmental and Intellectual
Disabilities<http://www.healthandenvironment.org/initiatives/learning/events/ldd\
i_meetings>
*

http://www.healthandenvironment.org/initiatives/learning/events/lddi_meetings

Dell Children's Medical Center of Central Texas; Austin, Texas
*National experts in various fields will discuss the latest research
linking environmental exposures and early neurological development.*

This workshop is an opportunity for cross- disciplinary discussions among
those in environmental, medical, and research fields as well as those
involved with health advocacy and public policy.


Speakers include

Anna Penn Hundley, MEd, Autism Treatment Center of Texas
Claudia Miller, MD, MS, University of Texas Health Science Center at San
Antonio
David Baskin, MD, The Methodist Hospital Research Institute Program
(invited)
Jane Ripperger-Suhler, MD, UT Southwestern at Seton Family of Hospitals,
Austin
Richard Finnell, PhD, Dell Children's Medical Center
Suruchi Chandra, MD, True Health Medical Center


===================================================


*December 2-3, Austin:*

*2011 Statewide Parent Leadership Conference: "Beyond the ARD: Parents
Engaged for **Positive Change" *

http://www.partnerstx.org/LeadershipConference/index.html

The conference will examine challenges facing families of children and
young adults with disabilities that extend beyond the school day and beyond
the school years.  Topics  will include: A Look Across the Parenting Life
Span, Effective Advocacy and Leadership  Skills, Guardianship and Estate
Planning, Sexuality, State and  Community Services and Resources, Parents
as Case Managers, Behavior Management, Family Life,  Stress Management, and
When the School Bus Doesn’t Stop at Your House Any More. *Stipends are
available.*



=====================================================

*
December 8 - 10, Dallas:*

*2011 Statewide Parental Involvement * <http://www.implanners.com/nclb/>*
Conference* <http://www.implanners.com/nclb/>

http://www.implanners.com/nclb

Parents will receive resources and strategies for improving parental
involvement skills, as

well as enhancing their children’s educational opportunities.  In addition,
the conference

will feature sessions by TEA staff on topics ranging from NCLB (No Child
Left Behind)

guidelines to how parents can become more involved in the education of
their child.

Educators will receive tips and guidance on improving relationships with
parents as well

as training on rules and regulations.


========================================================

*
SURVEY: Special Needs Resources in the Heart of Central Texas*

Does your area have anyone offering equine (horse) therapy? Swimming for
special  needs? Music classes? Is it easy, or difficult, to find a medical
specialist for your special- needs family member where you live?

This online survey
(https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/SpecialNeedsResources<http://www.surveymonkey.co\
m/s/SpecialNeedsResources>)
will  help identify resource needs throughout the Heart of Central Texas
area, and highlight opportunities for growth. Please help towards building
a better community for all!



=====================================================

*
*












*Anita Karney*
akkarney@...
*
*


[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

The Woodallkids Outreach Team in Waco!

The Brent Woodall Foundation for Exceptional Children (BWF) is arranging
to send a BWF Consultant to the Waco area on December 15th and December
16th, 2011 to provide families in your community the opportunity to
participate in a parent training that will teach the skills necessary to
implement the principles of Applied Behavior Analysis with your child or
loved one, who has a diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder or
Developmental Disabilities.

The BWF Consultant will administer a basic skills assessment, create an
individualized treatment plan and a written report and provide specific
strategies for your young child.

In addition, we will be offering a mini-workshop that all the Parents
who participate in the 2 day parent training event are eligible to
attend.

·      2-DAY PARENT TRAINING PROGRAM:   $250.00

-   Day 1 Includes 1 hr. assessment, written treatment goals & optional
group mini-workshop

-   Day 2 includes 2 hr. hands on parent training addressing individual
goals & resources



        ·  PARENT TRAINING MINI- WORKSHOP:   $10 per person

       -   $15 per couple if attending for the same child

       -   $5 per student with a college ID

       -   $5 for participants of Outreach Parent Training Program

       -  FREE if you refer another Parent Training participant



    Ű  All participants who attend the 2-day event will be eligible to
receive the mini-workshop for half

         price and any participant that refers another friend or parent to
the Woodallkids Outreach 2-day

         Parent training is eligible to attend the mini-workshop for
FREE!!!! In addition, you will also receive

         a one hour remote follow-up consultation for FREE!!!





Ű     Registration and payments for the upcoming Parent training must
be received by December 1, 2011. Those only attending the workshop are
encouraged to preregister at www.woodallkids.org or may pay on site.



   Ű Please note the Woodallkids Outreach Program will only be able to
provide this service in your city if there are four or more families
willing to participate in the 2-day Parent Training. If The Woodallkids
Outreach Program is not able to visit your city you will be refunded in
full and receive information regarding other opportunities that may
benefit your family.





[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

Hello,

   Please scroll down for news and information.
*NEXT MEETING: Heart of Texas Autism Network*

   *         MONDAY, DECEMBER 12, 6:30 - 8:00 pm*
*       Speaker: Debbie Fraysier, Executive Director, Mosaic in Waco*

   Mosaic in Waco serves individuals in eleven counties, including day
programming, respite, and residential services.
Debbie was instrumental in the initial implementation of the HCS (Home and
Community Based Services) Medicaid Waiver in Texas and has a wealth of
information on different options available to families who have loved ones with
special needs. You will come away with important information on current and
future options and possibilities in Texas!!
Childcare is available with a reservation. If you have not previously
registered your children, please download and fill out the form at
http://www.hotautismnetwork.org/files/Parent_Name.245153844.doc
Please send the registration form and your reservation to Natalie
Passanante at natalie_passanante@....
For directions to the meeting, go to http://www.hotautismnetwork.org/
directions.html.

    *==========================================*


*"Holiday Survival Guide for Families with Special Needs"*

Thanksgiving, Hanukkah, Christmas, New Year’s and other holidays can be
challenging for family members who have autism or other special needs. The
sounds, sights, and schedule changes during this season can be difficult to
manage.
This terrific free publication, from AbilityPath.org, has tips and
suggestions for toys, holiday decorating, tips for vising Santa, how to deal
with relatives who may not 'get it', and more! Go to *
http://tinyurl.com/ABILITYPATHGUIDE *for a copy to print/download.

==========================================================

    *Sunday, December 18, 9:00 - 11:00 am: Santa visit for children with autism;
Waco Richland Mall*

*Children with autism *are invited to come see Santa at Waco's Richland Mall on
*Sunday, December 18*, from *9 am to 11 am*! Richland Mall's Santa will be at
the mall two hours before the Mall stores open, so kids with autism can see
Santa with less of the sensory stimuli that might be overwhelming during regular
"Santa Time". The mall photographer will be present but there is no obligation
to buy the photography package. Parents may bring a camera and take one photo of
their child with autism and Santa; other photographs must be purchased through
the vendor. To download a social story, go to http://tinyurl.com/WACOSANTA .
"Preparing Children With Special Needs To Visit Santa", a video created by
SantaAmerica, may be watched at
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vLRiVQGscdI&feature=share.
For more information contact Anita Karney at 214-766-3260 or
anitakarney@....
Go to http://www.richlandmall.com/shop/richland.nsf/custom/Visit+Santa for more
information about Richland Mall's Santa.

      *==========================================*

    *CALLING ALL STUDENT ARTISTS*
*2nd Annual Mardi Gras Celebration of Art*

   *Once again we are celebrating the power of art to connect, inspire and lift
up all!*
     Mardi Gras Celebration of Art seeks to improve quality of life, not only for
people on the Autism spectrum but everyone who is affected by Autism. It's a way
to increase awareness, while breaking down the misconceptions that surround
Autism. Through art, people with autism can express themselves and communicate
beyond the limits of the spoken word.
     This regional art competition, show and sale is open to *art students of all
ages and abilities*; entries will be judged and prizes awarded in the *Mardi
Gras Celebration of Art weekend*, *Friday February 17 and Saturday Feburary 18,
2012. *
    *The competition is open to ALL art students of all ages and
abilities. * Registration is due (only registration, the art does not need to be
submitted at that time) *JANUARY 15th*.
Go to
http://www.mardigrasartwaco.org/participantinfo.html for registration forms and
more information.
    The Mardi Gras Celebration of Art is a celebration of the talents,
abilities and potential of everyone, regardless of circumstances or life
challenges ... *Although the competition is for all, we especially encourage
individuals who have ASD to enter and show off their talents! *
     Friday, February 17, there will be a "Super Friday" Mardi Gras party
featuring a Cajun buffet, silent auction, live jazz, music, dancing, a unique
experiential art performance and of course the art will be available for sale to
those who are attending. The next day, Saturday February 18 will be a
family-friendly celebration; not only will the incredible art creations from our
talented artists be on display and for sale, there'll be arts/craft activities
for the kids, music, entertainment, and more. Go to
http://mardigrasartwaco.org/superfriday.html for more information.
          *Both events take place at the Palladium in Waco (729 Austin
Avenue, across from the Hippodrome Theatre). *
    *Funds raised will benefit the Heart of Texas Autism Network. *
     To volunteer, donate or for more information contact *Betsy at
meklesse@...* or *Jacquelyn at makeadiff2010@...*.
     *
    *CASTING CALL:*
*Needed: 8 to 10 kids/youth with ASD who would like to participate in a music
video that will be shown at the Mardi Gras Celebration! *Filming will be in late
December/early January*.*

      ==============================================

    *The 5th Annual Walk for Autism *will be held on the campus of Baylor
University, at the Fountain Mall, on *Sunday, April 15, 2012.  Come be a part of
planning this great event to raise awareness for autism and have an afternoon
filled with music, entertainment, fun and resources and information for families
and kids!!*
For more information and/or to volunteer, contact Anita at
anitakarney@....

==============================================

*Heart of Texas Autism Network is also on **Facebook*.
go to
<http://www.facebook.com/pages/Heart-of-Texas-Autism-Network-HOTAN/1005358533931\
27?sk=wall>
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Heart-of-Texas-Autism-Network-HOTAN/10053585339312\
7?

====================================================

*NEWS:*

Article:*The Hidden Potential of Autistic Kids: Scientific American, Nov. 30,
2011*
http://www.scientificamerican.com/article.cfm?id=the-hidden-potential-of-autisti\
c-kids
Excerpts: Schools are underestimating the abilities of autistic children all
across the spectrum. Inaccurate testing have helped set expectations of autistic
kids too low—assuming that they will not be able to learn the same things that
the average child can ... The most commonly administered intelligence test, the
Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children (WISC) almost seems designed to flunk
an autistic person: it is a completely verbal, timed test that relies heavily on
cultural and social knowledge. It asks questions like "What is the thing to do
if you find an envelope in the street that is
sealed, addressed and has a new stamp on it?" and "What is the thing to do when
you cut your finger?"

   =====================

Article: *Changing Perceptions: The Power of Autism;** NATURE, Nov. 3, 2011*
   http://www.nature.com/nature/journal/v479/n7371/full/479033a.html
While not minimizing the challenges that people with autism deal with on a daily
basis, scientist Laurent Mottron writes in the journal Nature that those with
ASD also possess strengths and talents that give them an advantage in certain
fields of employment.

   ===============

Article: *Organization Offers Unusual Work For Those With Autism;* *KPBS, Dec.9,
2011*
http://www.kpbs.org/news/2011/dec/09/jobs-autism-offers-unusual-work/
EXCERPTS: Jeffery Stein, founder of Jobs for
Autism<http://www.jobsforautism.com/Jobsforautism_News_Events.html>,
was told his son had autism two decades ago. Back then, Stein says, he was told
his son would never speak. But Stein's son does speak, he also reads, writes,
graduated from schol and works full time. The experience of watching his son
prove skeptics wrong motivated Stein to help other young adults find fulfilling
work. He founded Jobs for Autism eight years ago.
Since then, Stein has helped place workers in jobs that range from working on a
movie set to working in security, repairing motorcycles and computerand video
programing.
“They can do a lot more than stuff pencils in a box. In fact, there’s a
software computer company that only hires people with Asperger’s and autism as
programmers," said Stein.

===============

    *Saturday, February 25, 2012*
*Lee Lockwood Scottish Rite Museum, 2801 W. Waco Drive, Waco, TX*
*First Annual Texas Angels Special Needs Pageant
*This pageant is open to boys and girls with special needs between birth and 21
years of age.  There is no entry fee for competitors.  To download a Sponsorship
letter go to *http://tinyurl.com/TXANGELLETTER* ; for Pageant Entry form go to
*http://tinyurl.com/TXANGELENTRY*;  and to download a flyer go to 
*http://tinyurl.com/TXANGELFLYER*. Entry forms may be faxed to (254) 299-1384 or
scanned and emailed to texasangelspageant@....

      =========================================================

    *April 22, 2012, Austin: *
  *GIVE AUTISM A CHANCE!  *
An exciting opportunity for people with autism (all ages) is coming to
Austin in April 2012. *"Give Autism A Chance"* seeks to demonstrate that people
with autism have talents, abilities, and unique gifts to contribute to society.
People with autism can have meaningful employment and  contribute much to
society ...
when given a chance.
The campaign was launched in Britain by 16-year-old Bella Tommey, whose brother
Billy is diagnosed with autism. She set up Billy's Cafe, a temporary cafe
staffed almost entirely by individuals with autism, with great success.  Go to 
<http://tinyurl.com/6lfhud9>
http://tinyurl.com/6lfhud9 and watch the cafe and the campaign in action.
*The Give Autism A Chance campaign is coming to Austin and they will be setting
up a cafe at the Spider House Patio Bar and Cafe on April 22! *
Give Autism A Chance is asking individuals with autism to send samples of
whatever shows off that person's talent, whether created with or without
support. They are also looking for people with autism to work at the Cafe. Go to
<http://www.theautismtrustusa.org/images/stories/AutismTrustUSA_Flyers2011.pdf>
http://www.theautismtrustusa.org/images/stories/AutismTrustUSA_Flyers2011.pdf
for more information.
Proceeds will benefit Autism Trust USA (http://www.theautismtrustusa.org/>
http://www.theautismtrustusa.org/), and will be used to help set up a
permanent cafe in a wellness center employing people with autism.

   =======================================

*
CLASSES:
**
Drama For Development Workshops*
*SIGN UP NOW! *
Parents, this is a fun, innovative way to help build stronger foundational
skills, using drama-based games and activities! Starting in January, workshops
in Waco and Killeen will be led by behavior
therapist and drama teacher Tina Ulrich for parents and young children
(ages 3 - 5 years).
Dates: *Saturday, January 7, 14, and 21*.  Cost is *FREE!
*Go to * <http://tinyurl.com/DRAMASPECTRUM>http://tinyurl.com/DRAMASPECTRUM*
for an information flyer.
For more information and to register, contact:  Tina Ulrich;
646.337.0597; <ulrichtina@...> ulrichtina@...;
Presented in partnership with *Heart of Texas Autism Network* and
*First Friends for Autism, Aspergers and Special Needs Kids*
(Facebook, *<http://tinyurl.com/FIRSTFRIENDS>
http://tinyurl.com/FIRSTFRIENDS *or on the web at *www.meetup
.com/Fort-Hood-Children-with-Autism-and-Aspergers )
**==

**ART CLASSES for children/youth with ASD*
      Betty Vela, owner of B's Art School in Hewitt, is partnering with the Heart
of Texas Autism Network and organizing an art class for children with autism, on
the first and third Thursday of each month* *from 4 to 5:30 pm, and continuing
through December. Cost: only $10 per class, which includes all art materials!
This is a great opportunity to experience the joy of creating and expressing
through art! For more information contact *Jacquelyn  at 
<makeadiff@...>makeadiff@....*

*==
**GARDENING*

    *Master Gardener Lynn DeMuynck* is leading children/youth in adventures with
plants during the Fall and Spring seasons! The class learns about seeds, growing
plants, Nature, and has "hands on" activities and take-home projects.
Heart of Texas Autism Network gardeners are also helping care for two large
planters in Waco’s WE CARE Community Garden downtown, and contributing the
harvest to Caritas. On Monday, December 5, Lynn DeMuynck harvested 21 pounds of
vegetables planted by the garden class before freezing temperatures could
endanger the crop.
Go see photos of the HOTAN contribution to the Community Garden on the
Heart of Texas Autism Network's Facebook page at

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Heart-of-Texas-Autism-Network-HOTAN/10053585339312\
7?

For more information about joining the class, contact
<anitakarney@...>
anitakarney@....

**===============================*

*January-February 2012, Waco: *
  *"Shooting Stars" Special-Needs Basketball & Cheerleading for Children & Youth*
  *SIGN UP IS STILL OPEN. *
Shooting Stars is a free league for children and youth with special needs,
hosted by Columbus Avenue Baptist Church in Waco. The season takes place on
Saturday mornings beginning in January 8 and continuing through February 28,
2012. Each special-needs child will receive free uniform, car magnet,
end-of-season award and more!  For a registration form go to
<http://tinyurl.com/ShootingStarsWaco>
http://tinyurl.com/ShootingStarsWaco ; for more information contact Melody Lyons
at 254-754-7971

           =========================================================
      **
       *SURVEY: Special Needs Resources in the Heart of Central Texas*
   *Does your area have anyone offering equine (horse) therapy? Swimming for
special  needs? Music classes? Is it easy, or difficult, to find a medical
specialist for your special-needs family member where you live? This online
survey ( <https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/SpecialNeedsResources>
https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/SpecialNeedsResources) will help identify
resource needs throughout the Heart of Central Texas area, and highlight
opportunities for growth. The survey is open to persons with disabilities,
familiy members, professionals and others. Please help towards building a better
community for all!

      ========================================

       *SURVEY: Insurance Coverage for Autism*
https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/X6JRYF6?tr=y&auid=9983122

AutismSpeaks and MedClaims Liaison, a patient advocacy company, are jointly
conducting a survey in some of the states which have passed autism insurance
reform, to gather data regarding the challenges families face in getting
insurance coverage and reimbursement for autism-related therapies and medical
care.

*=========================================*

        *APPS and FUNDING for Autism & Special Needs*

Families with exceptional children may find grants and funding available to help
them afford the medical treatments, therapies, assistive technologies
(*including iPADs*), etc that can help their child reach and grow to their
potential. For a list of resources, go to
<http://www.hotautismnetwork.org/files/AppsandFunding.doc>
http://www.hotautismnetwork.org/files/AppsandFunding.doc. *If you know of a
resource that is not on the list, send it in!*


    *If you have information regarding resources, support groups, studies, etc 
feel free to send them to  <waconewstouse@...>
waconewstouse@... or go to the Heart of Texas Autism Network website or
Facebook pages and share.*

*
*For information on area/regional support groups, meetings, activities, go to 
<http://www.hotautismnetwork.org/>www.hotautismnetwork.org and check
the "Activities" and "Meetings" pages.*


[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

I have a 6-year-old granddaughter who is autistic.  Recently, I saw an
excellent 60 Minutes segment on using an iPad to help autistic children
to communicate.

I have been wading through all sorts of iPAD apps for autistic children.
I am weary of looking and could use some help. Kim suggests several
apps, but I would like to hear users' comments. Please tell me what you
like re: autism apps - from free to expensive. Thanks.




[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

My son loves the free "Talking Tom" app .. I wouldn't call it educational in the
academic sense, but they are interactive and the characters respond directly to
what the user does .. if you pat Tom (he's a cat) on the head he'll purr, etc.
Also, ModelMe Going Places is good for video social stories. There's a free and
a "paid" version. Both of those are iPhone (and other Apple products) apps, not
sure if they're available on other devices like Android etc.

I've heard great things about ProLoquo2Go.

If you can stand to wade through more info,
http://www.hotautismnetwork.org/files/AppsandFunding.doc
has info on specific apps, lists review sites where parents will leave comments,
as well as lists resources where you can find funds.

There's a great scoring sheet for apps that you can use to oompare, on page 5 of
this document:
http://autismspectrum.org.au/images/pdf_files/Fact_sheet-iPads.pdf


--- In pddautismwacosupportgrp@yahoogroups.com, "Aubrey" <aubrey@...> wrote:
>
> I have a 6-year-old granddaughter who is autistic.  Recently, I saw an
excellent 60 Minutes segment on using an iPad to help autistic children to
communicate.
>
> I have been wading through all sorts of iPAD apps for autistic children. I am
weary of looking and could use some help. Kim suggests several apps, but I would
like to hear users' comments. Please tell me what you like re: autism apps -
from free to expensive. Thanks.
>
>
> [Non-text portions of this message have been removed]
>

go to http://www.a4cwsn.com/ Gary James has reviewed many many apps and has an
autistic son himself.  on the facebook page (if you have FB) a4cwsn they are
having an app party where you can get apps for free or reduced prices right
now...you have to like the page and participate.  i can't give you any
recommendations other than that...but i do know that on the website there are
bunches of videos that show the apps in use to help one make choices. hope this
helps. there is also a part on the site called dr. gary brown's autism apps.




-----Original Message-----
From: Aubrey <aubrey@...>
To: pddautismwacosupportgrp <pddautismwacosupportgrp@yahoogroups.com>
Sent: Thu, Dec 22, 2011 9:52 am
Subject: [PDD Autism Waco Support Grp] Autism Apps for iPad (suggestions needed)





I have a 6-year-old granddaughter who is autistic. Recently, I saw an
excellent 60 Minutes segment on using an iPad to help autistic children
to communicate.

I have been wading through all sorts of iPAD apps for autistic children.
I am weary of looking and could use some help. Kim suggests several
apps, but I would like to hear users' comments. Please tell me what you
like re: autism apps - from free to expensive. Thanks.

[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]







[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

Thanks for the link.  I will look at it.  As for facebook, I deactivated
my account.  My concern was security exposures, plus I was getting too
much junk from friends.   I will certainly explore the
http://www.a4cwsn.com/ <http://www.a4cwsn.com/>  link.


--- In pddautismwacosupportgrp@yahoogroups.com, randl4@... wrote:
>
>
> go to http://www.a4cwsn.com/ Gary James has reviewed many many apps
and has an autistic son himself. on the facebook page (if you have FB)
a4cwsn they are having an app party where you can get apps for free or
reduced prices right now...you have to like the page and participate. i
can't give you any recommendations other than that...but i do know that
on the website there are bunches of videos that show the apps in use to
help one make choices. hope this helps. there is also a part on the site
called dr. gary brown's autism apps.
>
>
>
>
> -----Original Message-----
> From: Aubrey aubrey@...
> To: pddautismwacosupportgrp pddautismwacosupportgrp@yahoogroups.com
> Sent: Thu, Dec 22, 2011 9:52 am
> Subject: [PDD Autism Waco Support Grp] Autism Apps for iPad
(suggestions needed)
>
>
>
>
>
> I have a 6-year-old granddaughter who is autistic. Recently, I saw an
> excellent 60 Minutes segment on using an iPad to help autistic
children
> to communicate.
>
> I have been wading through all sorts of iPAD apps for autistic
children.
> I am weary of looking and could use some help. Kim suggests several
> apps, but I would like to hear users' comments. Please tell me what
you
> like re: autism apps - from free to expensive. Thanks.
>
> [Non-text portions of this message have been removed]
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
> [Non-text portions of this message have been removed]
>




[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

Here is a very detailed list someone told me about a week ago:

iPad Apps & Resources for People With Autism : Reviews, Links, Prices

See
https://spreadsheets.google.com/pub?key=0AjbIta8OTS0KdHRMVWx0Q3pvOWRXRXB\
fd01jc3lqakE&hl=en&single=true&gid=0&output=html
<https://spreadsheets.google.com/pub?key=0AjbIta8OTS0KdHRMVWx0Q3pvOWRXRX\
Bfd01jc3lqakE&hl=en&single=true&gid=0&output=html>





[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

Thank you for all the information.  I found a free iPad app, Talking Tom
Cat 2.  Also found Model Me Going Places 2 (free app for iPad).  I will
also check the two URLs (links) you provided.  My daughter is working
with her 6-year-old daughter, Maddie, in using the iPad.  Maddie is
getting comfortable with the apps. She will then move on to teaching and
communicating apps.

Thanks again.

--- In pddautismwacosupportgrp@yahoogroups.com, "akkwaco" <akkarney@...>
wrote:
>
> My son loves the free "Talking Tom" app .. I wouldn't call it
educational in the academic sense, but they are interactive and the
characters respond directly to what the user does .. if you pat Tom
(he's a cat) on the head he'll purr, etc.
> Also, ModelMe Going Places is good for video social stories. There's a
free and a "paid" version. Both of those are iPhone (and other Apple
products) apps, not sure if they're available on other devices like
Android etc.
>
> I've heard great things about ProLoquo2Go.
>
> If you can stand to wade through more info,
> http://www.hotautismnetwork.org/files/AppsandFunding.doc
> has info on specific apps, lists review sites where parents will leave
comments, as well as lists resources where you can find funds.
>
> There's a great scoring sheet for apps that you can use to oompare, on
page 5 of this document:
> http://autismspectrum.org.au/images/pdf_files/Fact_sheet-iPads.pdf
>
>
> --- In pddautismwacosupportgrp@yahoogroups.com, "Aubrey" aubrey@
wrote:
> >
> > I have a 6-year-old granddaughter who is autistic. Recently, I saw
an excellent 60 Minutes segment on using an iPad to help autistic
children to communicate.
> >
> > I have been wading through all sorts of iPAD apps for autistic
children. I am weary of looking and could use some help. Kim suggests
several apps, but I would like to hear users' comments. Please tell me
what you like re: autism apps - from free to expensive. Thanks.
> >
> >
> > [Non-text portions of this message have been removed]
> >
>




[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

This is a great list!




Sent from my iPhone

NEXT MEETING: Heart of Texas Autism Network
  Monday January 9th, 6:30 -8:00 pm
  Speakers:   Carol Salvesen, OTR and Shelley Lowrey, M.S. CCP/SLP
Room 919, in the Baylor School of Social Work building, corner of Washington and
8th St. (811 Washington Ave.), Waco, Texas.
For printable direction to the meeting location go to
  http://www.hotautismnetwork.org/directions.html
    Carol Salvesen, an Occupational Therapist with more than 20 years of
experience working with children on the Autism Spectrum, and Shelley Lowrey, a
Speech Pathologist with more than 10 years of experience working with children
on the Autism Spectrum, will share information on interventions, therapies and
treatment options for individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).
  Both are with Care Options For Kids <http://www.cofk.com/>, a pediatric home
health agency providing Speech, Occupational, and Physical Therapy services for
children ages birth - 21 in the home, private school, or daycare setting.
Limited childcare is available, however you must RSVP!
  If you have not previously registered your children, please download and fill
out the form at http://tinyurl.com/HOTANPARENT and send your RSVP and the form
to Natalie Passanante at natalie_passanante@.... For more information
contact Anita at 214-766-3260 / anitakarney@....
     ==========================================

          Supper Clubs:
    There will be no formal "First Monday" Supper Club on Monday January 2, but
families may still come, sit together and socialise! We'll be at Chili's (Valley
Mills and Bosque Blvd location) at 6 pm.  Call/email Anita Karney 214-766-3260
or anitakarney@... with questions.

     "Fourth Tuesday Teen Plus" Supper Club -- Tuesday, January 24th, 6 pm at
Lake Brazos Steakhouse     1620 North Martin Luther King Jr Boulevard  Waco, TX
(for a map, go to http://tinyurl.com/LAKEBRAZOS) This group is more focused
towards teens (13+) and young adults with ASD who are independent or close to
being independent in ordering, waiting, and paying for their meal. This should
also include those that need little to no assistance in leaving the group to go
to the restroom. This group rotates locations and generally chooses each month
where they want to meet.

  NEXT "First Monday" Supper Club at Chili's will be Monday, February 6th, at 6
pm
Chili's, 5804 Bosque Blvd, Waco (254) 776-8330 <%28254%29%20776-8330>
The “First Monday” group is for all ages, but is more focused on those under
13 and/or those that aren't quite as independent in ordering, waiting, and
paying for their meal. Kids all sit together with volunteers, while parents sit
elsewhere in the restaurant. Older kids will sit together at one table with
volunteers, and the younger group will be together with volunteers. Contact Lisa
Plemons at lisabplemons@... for more information, and to RSVP.

   Chili's is  partnering with the Heart of Texas Autism Network the first Monday
of every month .. whether you are part of the Supper Club group or not! Come to
Chili's anytime (from 11 am to 10:30 pm), bring in the flyer  (
www.hotautismnetwork.org/files/ChilisFlyerJANUARY2012.doc<http://www.facebook.co\
m/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hotautismnetwork.org%2Ffiles%2FChilisFlyerJANUARY2012\
.doc&h=RAQH-3XHQAQGJ-w91a7j96pTdG-j09GsDo2w51F9xQLN4UA>) and 10% of any purchase
you make on January 2nd will be donated to the Heart of Texas Autism Network.
This applies all day, dine-in or carry-out.

REMEMBER, you must bring in the flyer.
     ==============================================

     Heart of Texas Autism Network is also on Facebook.
go to
<http://www.facebook.com/pages/Heart-of-Texas-Autism-Network-HOTAN/1005358533931\
27?sk=wall>
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Heart-of-Texas-Autism-Network-HOTAN/10053585339312\
7?
  ====================================================

NEWS, ACTIVITIES AND RESOURCES:
   Saturday, January 28, 1:00 pm:
  Lifelong Financial Planning and Legal Issues workshop
  with Elisa Rainey and Keith Reed.
    Texas Ranger Museum Education Center (behind the Texas Ranger Museum)
Planning for the future is advisable for all families, but there are unique
challenges when one of the members of the family has special needs..  Elisa
Rainey, law partner with Rainey and Rainey law firm, and Keith Reed, with New
York Life Insurance, will explore key topics involved in planning for persons
with disabilities. This workshop will address Legal and Financial Issues
critical to helping families plan with their loved one who has special needs,
including Wills, Special Needs Trusts, Medicaid/Social Security, Guardianship
and other options, and more.
To RSVP and for more information, contact Anita Karney 214-766-3260 or
anitakarney@...

=========================

    Saturday, January 28th, 9 - 11 am Autism Awareness Family Celebration, Dallas
Museum of Art The Dallas Museum of Art’s Autism Awareness Family Celebrations
introduce the Museum to families of children with autism. Pre-registered
families can visit the Museum free of charge and enjoy the Museum’s Center for
Creative Connections (C3) before the Museum opens to the public. Experiences
including art-making in the studio, an interactive musical performance, and a
new story board in the Young Learners Gallery. Pre-registration is required;
space is limited. For more information or to register for the event, e-mail your
name, phone number, and the number of people in your family who will attend to
access@... <Access@...>.
              =====================

University of Missouri free online Autism Training Modules
The University of Missouri offers free online Autism Training Modules for
families, educators and professionals.
The online autism training modules were developed by the Mid-Missouri Rapid
Response Initiative, in partnership with the MU Thompson Center for Autism and
Neurodevelopmental Disorders, University of Missouri Extension, and the Division
of Developmental Disabilities Office of Autism Services.
Training includes: Understanding Autism in Young Children, ASD Screening and
Referral, ASD Evidence-Based Practice and Interventions, ASD Transition to
Adulthood, and Building Family-Professional Partnerships.
Go to http://thompsoncenter.missouri.edu/training/modules.php to get started.
       ===============

  National Autism Center Manual: “A Parent’s Guide to Evidence-Based Practice
and Autism.”
http://www.nationalautismcenter.org/learning/family.php
The free manual focuses on helping parents as they make decisions about how to
best help children with ASD reach their full potential. It begins with a review
of the autism spectrum, symptoms, and co-occurring conditions, and identifies
and describes effective treatments. Other topics include the importance of
professional judgment, the role of family preferences and values in the
decision-making process, and factors to consider when choosing a team of
professionals to help their child.
        ============

      ARTICLE: More than just a toy: Lego Social Club helps children learn social
skills, patience and conflict resolution
     Effingham Daily News December 12, 2011
 
http://effinghamdailynews.com/local/x941118069/More-than-just-a-toy?iframe=true&\
width=100%&height=100%
EXCERPTS: With Lego pieces strewn across tables and piled in buckets, children
grabbing for reds or blues and digging through piles for coveted wheels, it
looks as though it’s absolute chaos  
 But really, children with autism,
Sensory Processing Disorder or ADHD are learning how to interact with one
another, practice patience and master conflict resolution, all while creating
their own Lego masterpieces.... Since fall, approximately eight children ranging
in ages from 5 to 14 meet the second and fourth Friday evening of the month. 

The safe, nonjudgmental environment could be a contributing factor to the
advancements, as well as the consistent one-on-one time with peers during Lego
club. It’s hard for the children to make friends because some classmates
don’t understand or know how to deal with disability, so interaction at school
can become limited
.volunteers are always reminding children to interact and
play with one another because some of the children are so used to playing
independently. Because social skills are limited, some children seem unsure what
it means to play side by side
.Parents bring their children to Effingham all
the way from Casey or Salem, commenting that they can visibly see changes in
their child, even getting reports from teachers of positive changes.
      ==============================

    VIDEO: Cafe serves up Jobs for Young Adults with Autism
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E2zRy6KjsMo&feature=share
  Inside the Mercedes-Benz of Tampa dealership, there's an art-themed coffee shop
that brews drinks with names like The Picasso and The Rembrandt. But that's not
the only unique thing about Artistas Cafe. All of the baristas - or, as they are
also known, "Artistas" - have autism.
   ================

      ARTICLE: On Location: Inclusion Films opens doors in Hollywood
    LA Times, December 27, 2011
 
http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/entertainmentnewsbuzz/2011/12/on-location-inclus\
ion-films-opens-doors-in-hollywood.html
EXCERPTS: Founded by Joey Travolta, older brother of actor John
Travolta,Inclusion Films trains adults with developmental disabilities in the
nuts and bolts of filmmaking -- from writing the script to building sets and
using film and editing equipment -- with the goal of finding them jobs in the
entertainment industry or some other field. Students with autism, cerebral palsy
and Down syndrome are trained by working cinematographers, set designers, actors
and other professionals who are active in the industry. "A lot of our students
aren't going to be filmmakers and may never work in the film business, but they
are going to be able to go into the workplace and have a sense of what it's like
to be on the job. This builds their self-confidence."

  ===============

    ARTICLE: TOP TEN list of autism research advancements
http://www.autismspeaks.org/science/science-news/top-ten-autism-research-achieve\
ments-2011
AutismSpeaks has released it's annual "Top Ten" list of significant stories for
autism research.
  ================

         CALLING ALL STUDENT ARTISTS 2nd Annual Mardi Gras Celebration of Art

Mardi Gras Celebration of Art seeks to improve quality of life, not only for
people on the Autism spectrum but everyone who is affected by Autism.
It's a celebration of the talents, abilities and potential of everyone,
regardless of circumstances or life challenges ... Although the competition is
for all, we especially encourage individuals who have ASD to enter and show off
their talents! Registration is due (only registration, the art does not need to
be submitted at that time) JANUARY 15th.
Go to http://www.mardigrasartwaco.org/participantinfo.html for registration
forms and more information.
Entries will be judged and prizes awarded in the Mardi Gras Celebration of Art
weekend, Friday February 17 and Saturday Feburary 18, 2012.
Attendees purchasing tickets to the Friday, February 17, "Super Friday" Mardi
Gras party will enjoy a Cajun buffet, silent auction, live jazz, music, dancing,
a unique experiential art performance and of course the art will be available
for sale to those who are attending.
The next day, Saturday February 18 will be a family-friendly celebration; not
only will the incredible art creations from our talented artists be on display
and for sale, there'll be arts/craft activities for the kids, music,
entertainment, and more. Go to http://mardigrasartwaco.org/superfriday.html for
more information.
Both events take place at the Palladium in Waco (729 Austin Avenue, across from
the Hippodrome Theatre). Funds raised will benefit the Heart of Texas Autism
Network.
To volunteer, donate or for more information contact Betsy at meklesse@...
or Jacquelyn at makeadiff2010@....
  ==============================================

          The 5th Annual Walk for Autism will be held on the campus of Baylor
University, at the Fountain Mall, on Sunday, April 15, 2012.
Come be a part of planning this great event to raise awareness for autism and
have an afternoon filled with music, entertainment, fun and resources and
information for families and kids!!
For more information and/or to volunteer, contact Anita at
anitakarney@....
====================================================

          Happy New Year!
Working together, we can help make the future brighter for all ...
  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y0Yg9wjctRw

  The Heart of Texas Autism Network provides support, information, and networking
for people with autism spectrum disorders (ASD), families, caregivers, and the
community.
  We work to increase and improve opportunities that help people with ASD
participate, contribute, and live fully and independently in our society.
  Programs and activities include monthly meetings, social activities, classes
and workshops. Join with us as we work to bring help and support to local
families and raise awareness and improve resources in our community!

     If you have information regarding resources, support groups, studies, etc 
feel free to send them to  <waconewstouse@...> waconewstouse@... or
go to the Heart of Texas Autism Network website or Facebook pages and share.

For information on area/regional support groups, meetings, activities, go to 
<http://www.hotautismnetwork.org/>www.hotautismnetwork.org and check the
"Activities" and "Meetings" pages.

  [Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

HIGH SCHOOL Mardi Gras Theme competition is complete!
First Prize Winner:  Celestino Trejo, 11th grade McGregor H.S.
2nd place: Ashlee Rodriguez, 11th grade Lorena H.S.
3rd place: Kamrynn Schiller, 10th grade West H.S.
The first place winning entry will be used to represent the
Celebration*in promotional materials and on the website. See the
winning entries at
http://www.mardigrasartwaco.org/highschoolartcompetition.html



On Thursday, January 4th, Betsy Klesse and Jacquelyn Baumann were
interviewed on KWTX regarding the Mardi Gras Celebration of Art!
See the video here:
http://tinyurl.com/KWTXMARDIGRAS

  ==============================================


*2nd Annual Mardi Gras Celebration of Art!*
CALLING ALL STUDENT ARTISTS, all ages and abilities!
Register to participate by January 15

Mardi Gras Celebration of Art seeks to improve quality of life, not only for
people on the Autism spectrum but everyone who is affected by Autism. It's a
celebration of the talents, abilities and potential of everyone, regardless of
circumstances or life challenges ...
Although the competition is for all, we especially encourage individuals who
have ASD to enter and show off their talents!
Registration is due (only registration, the art does not need to be
submitted at that time) JANUARY 15th.
Go to http://www.mardigrasartwaco.org/participantinfo.html for
registration forms and more information.
Entries will be judged and prizes awarded in the Mardi Gras Celebration of Art
weekend, Friday February 17 and Saturday Feburary 18, 2012.
Attendees purchasing tickets to the Friday, February 17, "Super Friday" Mardi
Gras party will enjoy a Cajun buffet, silent auction, live jazz, music, dancing,
a unique experiential art performance and of course the art will be available
for sale to those who are attending.
The next day, Saturday February 18 will be a family-friendly celebration; not
only will the incredible art creations from our talented artists be on display
and for sale, there'll be arts/craft activities for the kids, music,
entertainment, and more. Go to
http://mardigrasartwaco.org/superfriday.html

Both events take place at the Palladium in Waco (729 Austin Avenue, across from
the Hippodrome Theatre).
Funds raised will benefit the Heart of Texas Autism Network.
To volunteer, donate or for more information contact Betsy at
meklesse@... or Jacquelyn at makeadiff2010@...

======================================================


*REMINDER!*NEXT MEETING:Heart of Texas Autism Network, Monday January 9th, 6:30
- 8:00 pm*

**Therapies, Interventions and Treatments for Autism**
*Speakers:  Carol Salvesen, OTR and Shelley Lowrey, M.S. CCP/SLP*

   Room 919, in the Baylor School of Social Work building, corner of
Washington and 8th St. (811 Washington Ave.), Waco, Texas.
*Enter the parking garage at the back of the building on Columbus Avenue.

For printable direction for parking and meeting location go to
http://www.hotautismnetwork.org/directions.html

Carol Salvesen, an Occupational Therapist with more than 20 years of
experience working with children on the Autism Spectrum, and Shelley
Lowrey, a Speech Pathologist with more than 10 years of experience working with
children on the Autism Spectrum*, will share information on interventions,
therapies and treatment options for individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder
(ASD). Both are with Care Options For
Kids a pediatric home health agency providing Speech, Occupational, and Physical
Therapy services for children ages birth - 21 in the home, private school, or
daycare setting.

Childcare is available, but you must RSVP; please contact Natalie
Passanante at natalie_passanante@...  to check on availability.

If you have not previously registered your children, please download and fill
out the form at
*http://tinyurl.com/HOTANPARENT and send your RSVP and the form to Natalie at
natalie_passanante@...
  For more
information contact Anita at 214-766-3260 /
anitakarney@...
==============================================


*The 5th Annual Walk for Autism will be held on the campus of Baylor
University, at the Fountain Mall, on Sunday, April 15, 2012.  *
*FORM A WALK TEAM! Come be a part of this great event to raise awareness for
autism in an afternoon filled with music, entertainment, fun and resources and
information for families and kids!!
For more information go to *http://www.hotautismnetwork.org/contact_us.html
or   email anitakarney@...

==========================================

*NEWS, ACTIVITIES AND RESOURCES:*


*Saturday, January 28, 1:00 pm - 4:00 pm**
**Lifelong Financial Planning and Legal Issues workshop
*with Elisa Rainey and Keith Reed*
*Texas Ranger Museum Education Center* (behind the Texas Ranger Museum), I-35
and University Parks exit, Waco Tx.

*Planning for the future *is advisable for all families, but there are
unique challenges when one of the members of the family has special
needs. Elisa Rainey, partner with Rainey and Rainey law firm and  Keith
Reed with New York Life Insurance, will explore key topics involved in
planning for persons with disabilities. This workshop will address *Legal and
Financial* Issues critical to helping families plan with their loved one who has
special needs, including *Wills, Special Needs Trusts, Medicaid/Social Security,
Guardianship and other options, and more. *Not to be missed! *
Cost is free, but please RSVP. Light refreshments will be provided.
To RSVP and for more information, contact Anita Karney 214-766-3260 or
anitakarney@...
============================================

*ARTICLE: Strategies for returning to school after a break*

http://www.sandbox-learning.com/FileLib/Strategies_for_Returning_to_School_after\
_a_Break.pdf
The transition from a break back to school can be difficult for children. The
article lists a few simple strategies to help make the return easier on
everyone.

*ARTICLE: Families frustrated, heartened in struggle to cope with autism*

http://www.stamfordadvocate.com/news/article/Greenwich-families-struggle-to-cope\
-with-autism-2411083.php#page-1

EXCERPT: You are going to have to look after these individuals at one end of
their lives or the other 
 If you don't put the time in when they are young by
being proactive about teaching them and giving them a chance, then they are
going to come out of the education system needing huge amounts of help and
support, which has to be funded. So why not be proactive in the beginning?

*ARTICLE: Using Theater to Teach Social Skills: Researchers document
improvements for children with autism*
www.hepg.org/hel/article/521*<http://hotautismnetwork.us2.list-manage.com/track/\
click?u=19d98814b825d6737441400cc&id=290f97dcde&e=b8a5befca1>
Harvard Education Letter, January/February 2012
EXCERPT: "Children with autism struggle with social interaction, have
difficulty with nonverbal and verbal communication, and often present with an
inflexible thinking pattern. As such, they have difficulty reading another
person’s perspective (also known as theory of mind) and can have difficulty
with empathy and emotional regulation. All of those skills are naturally built
into the theater process."

==============================================
*Heart of Texas Autism Network Classes/Activities:*

  *Drama For Development!*
SIGN UP NOW! Parents, *this is a fun, innovative way* to help build
stronger foundational skills, using drama-based games and activities!
Starting in January, workshops in Waco and Killeen will be led by behavior
therapist and drama teacher *Tina Ulrich for parents and young children (ages 3
- 5 years).
Dates:* Saturday, January 21, 28 and Februay 4.*
Cost is FREE!
Go to http://tinyurl.com/DRAMASPECTRUM for
an information flyer.
For more information and to register, contact:  Tina Ulrich;
646.337.0597; ulrichtina@...
Presented in partnership with Heart of Texas Autism Network and First
Friends for Autism, Aspergers and Special Needs Kids (Facebook,
http://tinyurl.com/FIRSTFRIENDS or on the web at
www.meetup.com/Fort-Hood-Children-with-Autism-and-Aspergers)

==
*ART CLASSES for children/youth with ASD*
Betty Vela, owner of B's Art School in Hewitt, is partnering with the Heart of
Texas Autism Network and organizing an art class for children with autism, every
Thursday at 4 pm.
Cost: only $10 per class, which includes all art materials! This is a great
opportunity to experience the joy of creating and expressing through art! There
are openings available; however class size is limited.
==

*GARDENING*
*Master Gardener Lynn DeMuynck is leading children/youth in adventures
with plants! The class learns about seeds, growing plants, Nature, and has
"hands on" activities and take-home projects.
Heart of Texas Autism Network also helps care for two large planters in Waco’s
WE CARE Community Garden downtown, and contributes the harvest to Caritas.
On Thursday, January 5, 14 pounds* of broccoli, radishes, greens and other
vegetables were harvested and donated to Caritas by gardening class students.
One month before, on December 5, Lynn DeMuynck harvested 21 pounds of vegetables
before freezing temperatures could endanger the crop, and got them to Caritas.
* Any child/youth with ASD who would like to help is welcome! *
* Go see photos of the HOTAN contribution to the Community Garden on the Heart
of Texas Autism Network's Facebook page at
*
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Heart-of-Texas-Autism-Network-HOTAN/10053585339312\
7?
Birdwatching and other nature adventures have also been discussed. For more
information, go to
*http://www.hotautismnetwork.org/contact_us.html*
or
email anitakarney@... <anitakarney@...>

================================================


*Supper Clubs:**
*"Fourth Tuesday Teen Plus" Supper Club -- Tuesday, January 24th, 6 pm at Lake
Brazos Steakhouse
1620 North Martin Luther King Jr Boulevard  Waco, TX (for a map, go to
http://tinyurl.com/LAKEBRAZOS

This group is more focused towards teens (13+) and young adults with ASD who are
independent or close to being independent in ordering, waiting, and paying for
theirmeal. This should also include those that need little to no assistance in
leaving the group to go to the restroom. This group rotates locations and
generally chooses each month where they want to meet.

*NEXT "First Monday" Supper Club at Chili's -- Monday, February 6th, at 6 pm*
Chili's, 5804 Bosque Blvd, Waco (254) 776-8330
The “First Monday” group is for all ages, but is more focused on those under
13 and/or those that aren't quite as independent in ordering, waiting, and
paying for their meal. Kids all sit together with volunteers, while parents sit
elsewhere in the restaurant. Older kids will sit together at one table with
volunteers, and the younger group will be together with volunteers. Contact Lisa
Plemons at lisabplemons@...  for more information, and to RSVP.

=====================================================================

*Other meetings/activities:*

*Monday, January 9, 10 am (Round Rock)*
*Special Ed PTA of Central Texas*
La Madeleine (conference room) 4401 N. I-35, Suite 2002, (in the Outlet Mall
shopping center)
Round Rock, TX
The Special Education PTA of Central Texas is run by parents of children with
disabilities FOR children with disabilities.
PTA board members include an education advocate, resource advisor for laws and
regulations, grant coordinator, faith-based resource advisor, and more. The
Special Education PTA of Central Texas is a member of the National PTA and Texas
State PTA, and a non-profit 501(c)3 organization, whose mission is to make every
child's potential a reality by engaging and empowering families and communities
to advocate for all children.
Contact: *septa.centex@...* or, Deborah
Risher at *512-948-8948*
or, Phyllis Nairn at *254-466-1878*

*Saturday, January 21 10:00 - noon*
*A+ Support Group meeting, Belton*
Childcare is provided for children with special needs and their siblings.
Registration is recommended for children by Friday, January 20th at 12 noon.
Please register for childcare to Tracy OBanon by email at
tracy.obanon@...
When registering, please include the names and ages of the children
attending as well as the diagnosis of the child with special needs.
Keith Reed with New York Life insurance, will discuss the financial and legal
aspects of special needs trust planning.

*Saturdays, January 7 - February 28, Waco**
**"Shooting Stars" Special-Needs Basketball & Cheerleading for Children & Youth*
SIGN UP IS STILL OPEN. Shooting Stars is a free league for children and youth
with special needs, hosted by Columbus Avenue Baptist Church in Waco. The season
takes place on Saturday mornings beginning in January 8 and continuing through
February 28, 2012. Each special-needs child will receive free uniform, car
magnet, end-of-season award and more! For more information contact Melody Lyons
at
254-754-7971

Sunday, Jan. 8th, 2 pm, and
Saturday, Jan. 14th, 2:30 and 4:00 pm (Austin)
Just for fun!
Ugly Duckling and The Tortoise and The Hare
(as you've never seen them before)
*Paramount Theatre, 713 Congress
Corbian Dance Company performs two classic stories told with *spectacular glow
in the dark electroluminescent wire (EL Wire) puppets.
  Broadway.com describes their puppetry as “*an eye-popping display of
storytelling thats like nothing else you’ve ever seen.

http://tinyurl.com/6pjombd

*
============================================

*Heart of Texas Autism Network is also on Facebook.*
go to
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Heart-of-Texas-Autism-Network-HOTAN/10053585339312\
7?

============================================

If you have any resources to share, or information regarding activities,
meetings, etc please send them to
waconewstouse@...


Thanks!


Heart of Texas Autism Network
Mailing address: PO Box 2484, Waco TX 76703

Hello, Scroll down for new information! Thanks ..

    *2nd Annual Mardi Gras Celebration of Art!
REGISTRATION DEADLINE extended to FEBRUARY 1st!
CALLING ALL STUDENT ARTISTS,  all ages and abilities!*

Mardi Gras Celebration of Art is a celebration of the talents, abilities
andpotential of veryone, regardless of circumstances or life challenges ... It's
for everyone, but we especially encourage individuals who have ASD to enter!
Registration is due by February 1st. Go to
http://www.mardigrasartwaco.org/participantinfo.html for registration forms and
more information. If you have questions, contact Betsy at meklesse@....

Entries will be judged and prizes awarded in the *Mardi Gras Celebration of Art
weekend, Friday February 17 and Saturday Feburary 18, 2012. *

Guest artists Grant Manier and Alexandria Sias are two young artists featured in
the newly-published book, ARTISM: The Art of Autism.  Grant is from Houston
(www.grantsecoart.com) and Lexi is from Waxahachie. Grant teaches the importance
of being environmentally responsible through his eco-friendly masterpieces that
consist of reusing recycled paper material, and has won numerous awards and
national recognition for his work. Lexi creates incredible digital artwork
similar to Japanese Anime. They'll be showcasing their incredible talents on
Celebration Weekend!

Attendees purchasing tickets to the *Friday, February 17, "Super Friday" Mardi
Gras party* will enjoy a Cajun buffet, silent auction, live jazz, music,
dancing, a unique experiential art performance and of course the art will be
available for sale to those who are attending.
Go to http://mardigrasartwaco.org/superfriday.html for more information.

*Saturday February 18* will be a family-friendly celebration; not only will the
incredible art creations from the talented student artists in our area be on
display and for sale, there'll be arts/craft activities for the kids, music,
entertainment, and more.
Both events take place at the *Palladium* in Waco (729 Austin Avenue,
across from the Hippodrome Theatre). Funds raised will benefit the Heart of
Texas Autism Network. To volunteer, donate or for more information contact Betsy
at meklesse@...  or Jacquelyn at makeadiff2010@....

*HIGH SCHOOL Mardi Gras Theme competition is complete!
**First Prize Winner:  Celestino Trejo, 11th grade McGregor H.S.;*
2nd place: Ashlee Rodriguez, 11th grade Lorena H.S.;
3rd place: Kamrynn Schiller, 10th grade West H.S.
The first place winning entry will be used to represent the Celebration in
promotional materials and on the website.
See the winning entries at
http://www.mardigrasartwaco.org/highschoolartcompetition.html !

On *Thursday, January 4th, Betsy Klesse and Jacquelyn Baumann were
interviewed on KWTX *regarding the Mardi Gras Celebration of Art! See the video
here: http://tinyurl.com/KWTXMARDIGRAS


==============================

*REMINDER!

  *Saturday, January 28, 1:00 pm - 4:00 pm*
*Lifelong Financial Planning and Legal Issues Workshop*

http://tinyurl.com/WacoJan28
*
*Texas Ranger Museum Education Center*
(behind the Texas Ranger Museum), I-35 and University Parks exit, Waco Tx.
Planning for the future is advisable for all families, but there are unique
challenges when one of the members of the family has special needs.
  *Elisa Rainey, partner with Rainey and Rainey law firm

http://www.raineyandrainey.com/about.htm

and Keith Reed, with New York Life Insurance

http://queensquayharbourfront.com/new-york-life-in-waco-partnering-with-other-or\
ganizations-to-create-child-ids

will discuss planning for persons with disabilities.
This workshop address critical issues: Wills, Special Needs Trusts,
Medicaid/Social Security, Guardianship and other options, and more. Don't miss
this valuable opportunity to learn what options and resources are available!!
Get a flyer at
http://tinyurl.com/WacoJan28

Cost is free. Light refreshments will be provided.
To RSVP and for more information, contact Anita Karney 214-766-3260 or
anitakarney@...

SCOUTING FOR SPECIAL NEEDS: Boy Scout Special Needs Troop Meeting
Thursdays, 7 pm at Hewitt VFW post 6008, 725 Sun Valley Blvd (next to Dairy
Queen)
Scouting for kids/youth with autism and other disabilities -- the Hewitt VFW
will sponsor the troop, and other local troops are available to mentor the
Scouts.
Troops may be formed for Boy Scouts ages 11 - 18; Co-ed Venture Scouts ages 14 -
21; Cub Scouts ages 8 - 10. More information,
anitakarney@...

*ART CLASSES for children/youth with ASD Every Thursday, 4 pm.
*Betty Vela, owner of B's Art School in Hewitt, is partnering with the
Heart of Texas Autism Network and organizing an art class for children with
autism, every Thursday at 4 pm. Cost: only $10 per class, which includes all art
materials! This is a great opportunity to experience the joy of creating and
expressing through art! There are openings available, however class size is
limited.

*GARDENING
**Master Gardener Lynn DeMuynck is leading children/youth in adventures with
plants!  The class learns about seeds, growing plants, Nature, and has "hands
on" activities and take-home projects.
Heart of Texas Autism Network also helps care for two large planters in the Waco
WE CARE Community Garden downtown, and contributes the harvest to Caritas.
On Thursday, January 5, 14 pounds of broccoli, radishes, greens and other
vegetables were harvested and donated to Caritas by gardening class students.
One month before, on December 5, Lynn DeMuynck harvested 21 pounds of vegetables
before freezing temperatures could endanger the crop, and got them to Caritas.
*Any child/youth with ASD who would like to help is welcome!  Photos of the
HOTAN contribution to the Community Garden are
on the Heart of Texas Autism Network's Facebook page at

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Heart-of-Texas-Autism-Network-HOTAN/10053585339312\
7?

. Birdwatching and other nature adventures have also been discussed.  For more
information, go to www.hotautismnetwork.org/contact_us.html or email
anitakarney@...


*Supper Clubs:

*"Fourth Tuesday Teen Plus" Supper Club -- Tuesday, FEBRUARY 27th, 6 pm
Location TBA.
This group is more focused towards teens (13+) and young adults with ASD who are
independent or close to being independent in ordering, waiting, and paying for
theirmeal. This should also include those that need little to no assistance in
leaving the group to go to the restroom. This group rotates locations and
generally chooses
each month where they want to meet. Contact Lisa Plemons at lisabplemons@...
for more information, and to RSVP.

*NEXT "First Monday" Supper Club at Chili's -- Monday, February 6th, at 6 pm
*Chili's*, 5804 Bosque Blvd, Waco (254) 776-8330
The First Monday group is for all ages, but is more focused on those
under 13 and/or those that aren't quite as independent in ordering,
waiting, and paying for their meal. Kids all sit together with volunteers, while
parents sit elsewhere in the restaurant. Older kids will sit together at one
table with volunteers, and the younger group will be together with volunteers.
Contact Lisa Plemons at lisabplemons@...  for more information, and to RSVP.

*CHILI's partners with Heart of Texas Autism Network every first
Monday! Whether you come to Supper Club or not, come to Chili's at
5804 Bosque, bringing the flyer
(print it from
http://www.hotautismnetwork.org/files/ChilisFlyerFEBRUARY2012.doc) and 10% of
anything purchased will benefit the Heart of Texas Autism Network!


*Other Activities/News: *

*Saturday, February 4, 2012, 9:00 am - 3:00 pm (Waco)*
*25th Annual Fishing Event for Very Special People!!*
  Heart of Texas Fairgrounds, 4601 Bosque Blvd.
A day of fun, fishing, dancing, games, food & friends, at the * The event is
free!
For more information call (254) 752-8361.
Presented by Travis Bailey, Constable Precinct 1 and HOTI Day Habilitation,
HOTRMHMR.

*Saturday, February 4, 9:00 am - 4:00 pm (Killeen)
**The Positive Discipline Way: All Ages, All Abilities, All Children!
(Killeen) Education Connection, 2207 Florence Rd, Killeen
Cost: $20.00 per person (includes lunch); Training certificates for 8 hours will
be given.
Presented by:  Salley Schmid, MS Family Therapy, CPDA
Mail payments and forms or drop off to: Education Connection, 2207 Florence
Road, Killeen, TX  76542
Please include: Name of Attendees, E-mail address, & Phone number;  Please have
all forms and payments into Education Connection by January 31st.
  Spaces are limited.
Contact Tracy at: killeenrespite@... for more information

*Saturday, February 25, 2012*
*First Annual Texas Angels Special Needs Pageant*
Lee Lockwood Scottish Rite Museum, 2801 W. Waco Drive, Waco, TX
This pageant is open to boys and girls with special needs between birth and 21
years of age.
There is no entry fee for competitors.
To download a Sponsorship letter go to http://tinyurl.com/TXANGELLETTER ;
for Pageant Entry form go to http://tinyurl.com/TXANGELENTRY;
and to download a flyer go to
http://tinyurl.com/TXANGELFLYER<http://tinyurl.com/TXANGELFLYER>
.
Entry forms may be faxed to (254) 299-1384 or scanned and emailed to
texasangelspageant@....

*Creekside Christian Retreat - for families with children with autism*
http://creeksidechristianretreat.blogspot.com/
Robert and Sharon Kersten have a 65-acre property near Mexia, Texas, and are in
the process of obtaining a 501(c)3 for the purpose of creating a retreat for
families who have children with autism. Plans for the property include a fenced
playground with sensory areas as well as an area for "hands-on" interaction with
animals, areas in which to camp, and a building in which to offer classes and
services in an indoor environment. The Kerstens are Texas Master Naturalists and
Texas Master Gardeners, and plan to work with therapists to develop outdoor
programs and therapies specifically designed for children with autism. "We are
asking for autism
groups, parents, special education teachers and therapists to share with us your
ideas and desires for ways we can meet the needs of families living with autism
in further development."

*ARTICLE:
*Are apps the key to revolutionising autism learning?*
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-16534678

EXCERPT: "She has gone from being a little girl who had no way of showing us how
much she knew, to a little girl who now has a portable device she can laugh,
play and engage with," says her mother  ... Veronica is six years old and
severely affected by autism. She has significant learning difficulties and finds
many social situations very difficult. She lost all her speech three years ago.
“Don't expect miracles.
  Technology can revolutionise the way children with
autism communicate, but not in all cases,” says Richard Mills, of Research
Autism and National Autistic Society. But in common with many other children
like her, touchscreen computers have provided a way of learning and
communicating that plays to her strengths. As a result, devices like iPads are
fast becoming a 'must-have' for many families of children with autism.

*ARTICLE:
*Moving Toward a Multi-Treatment Approach to Autism: The Whole is Greater Than
the Sum of the Parts*

www.autismfile.com/treatment-therapy/moving-toward-a-multi-treatment-approach-to\
-autism-the-whole-is-greater-than-the-sum-of-the-parts

EXCERPT: It is important to note that in the past five years or so, many service
providers and professionals have begun to promote what is most often called a
multidisciplinary approach to treatment. ... There is top-tier research
underlining the fact that children with autism require a range of supports. A
group of America’s leading psychologists and specialists surveyed and studied
the field of autism treatment for over a year and concluded, no single
intervention has been shown to deal effectively with problem behaviors for all
children with autism.
(Educating Children with Autism, National Research Council Report, 2001).
*
*
*ARTICLE:
*Bacteria in the gut of autistic children different from
non-autistic children *
http://medicalxpress.com/news/2012-01-bacteria-gut-autistic-children-non-autisti\
c.html

New results reveal that the guts of children with autism differ from other
children in at least one important way: many children with autism harbor a type
of bacteria in their guts that non-autistic children do not. The study was
conducted by Brent Williams and colleagues at Columbia University's School of
Public Health.
*
*
*ARTICLE: Registries of autistic children arm police with information*

http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/national/registries-of-autistic-children-arm\
-police-with-information/article2296849/

EXCERPT: In a panic, the mother of a teenage boy called police. Her son was
chasing her around their home with a knife. But when police arrived, no one
screamed at the boy to drop the weapon, or approached with gun drawn. Instead,
he was asked calmly about his favourite hockey team. Within minutes, the
situation had cooled down enough that an officer could take the knife from the
boy before taking him to a hospital.

*(NOTE: This article illustrates why programs like "Take Me Home" can be
helpful.  TAKE ME HOME is a free, voluntary registration database maintained by
the Waco Police Department Communications Division for adults and children who
may have difficulty communicating due to a developmental or cognitive
disability. The database is only accessible to law enforcement personnel and may
include a picture, with disability information, a physical description and
emergency contact information. If a person in the
Take Me Home program is encountered by a police officer or deputy
dispatched by Waco, personnel can access the database and quickly access
critical information that may assist in communicating with the individual.
*Find out more at **www.co.mclennan.tx.us/sheriff/takemehome.aspx)*


  *ARTICLE:
*Using Theater to Teach Social Skills: Researchers document
improvements for children with autism
  www.hepg.org/hel/article/521

Harvard Education Letter, January/February 2012

EXCERPT: "Children with autism struggle with social interaction, have
difficulty with nonverbal and verbal communication, and often present with an
inflexible thinking pattern. As such, they have difficulty reading another
person’s perspective (also known as theory of mind) and can have difficulty
with empathy and emotional regulation. All of those skills are naturally built
into the theater process."


Heart of Texas Autism Network is also on Facebook. Go to
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Heart-of-Texas-Autism-Network-HOTAN/10053585339312\
7?
  .

More information is available at http://www.hotautismnetwork.org
<http://www.hotautismnetwork.org>on
the activities or meetings pages.

If you have any resources to share, or information regarding activities,
meetings, etc please send them to waconewstouse@....


Thanks!

Heart of Texas Autism Network
www.hotautismnetwork.org
Mailing address: PO Box 2484, Waco TX 76703

Next Meeting for Heart of Texas Autism Network*

Monday, Feb 13, 6:30 - 8:00 pm, Room 919, 811 Washington Ave., Waco, Texas**

*SPEAKER: SHARRON STEPHENSON, Transition Specialist, Region 12 Education Service
Center <http://staffweb.esc12.net/~sstephenson/>*
*
*Sharron has been in the field of special education for 19 years, from
elementary through the high school level.

Sharron was also involved in researching the use of art therapy as a method of
improving self-concept in elementary age children with disabilities and was the
recipient of the "Apple" award which provided funding for this project.

Sharron was co-creator of the "Big Blue D.R.E.A.M.S." (Developing Real
Employment and Management Skills) program while working for Temple
Independent School District. She is currently working to develop this
program into a thriving business for individuals with disabilities.

Come with your questions and bring your notebooks! You'll walk away with a
wealth of information and resources!

Free childcare is available, however you must RSVP if you need childcare.  If
you have not previously registered your children, please download and fill out
the form at

www.hotautismnetwork.org/files/Parent_Name.245153844.doc

Please send the registration form and your reservation to Natalie
Passanante at  natalie_passanante@....

** The parking garage entrance is at the back of the building on Columbus
Avenue. For printable direction to the meeting location go to
www.hotautismnetwork.org/directions.html.


------------------------------------------------------------------

*2nd Annual Mardi Gras Celebration of Art
<http://www.mardigrasartwaco.org/uslinks.html>*
Mardi Gras Celebration of Art is a celebration of the talents, abilities and
potential of veryone, regardless of circumstances or life challenges ... Student
artists of ALL ages and ALL abilities throughout Central Texas have contributed
their works to this cause. Winners will be revealed at the Mardi Gras
Celebration of Art gala on Friday February 17.

The Celebration's two featured guest artists, *Grant Manier and Alexandria
Sias*, are both outstanding artists living with autism, who will be  in Waco for
Celebration Weekend. See more information about them at
http://tinyurl.com/MardiGrasArtists.
They have both been profiled in the newly-published book, ARTISM: The Art of
Autism <http://artismtoday.com/artism-the-art-of-autism/>, which profiles 54
artists worldwide who are living with an autism spectrum disorders.

Attendees purchasing tickets to the *Friday, February 17, "Super Friday" Mardi
Gras party *will enjoy a Cajun buffet, silent auction, live jazz, music,
dancing, a unique experiential art performance and of course the art will be
available for sale to those who are attending. Go to
http://mardigrasartwaco.org/superfriday.html for more information!

*Saturday February 18* will be a family-friendly celebration; not only will the
incredible art creations from the talented student artists in our area be on
display and for sale, there'll be arts/craft activities for the kids, music,
entertainment, and more!
Both events take place at the Palladium in Waco (729 Austin Avenue, across from
the Hippodrome Theatre).

Grant Manier has created a *Mardi Gras piece especially for the Celebration*. In
addition, we are receiving donations from other artists for the Silent Auction.
Go to http://tinyurl.com/WacoSilentAuction  to see some of the beautiful artwork
being donated to the Silent Auction.

Not only is The Mardi Gras Celebration getting amazing contributions from
outstanding artists, but area businesses are donating GREAT items and some
fabulous packages are being put together for winning bidders! Zales, Lanell
Hagars, Bella Visage, Croft Art Gallery, Bernina's, The Grape, Gourmet Gallery,
Practically Pikasso, and more....
Get your tickets at http://www.mardigrasartwaco.org/superfriday.html, or if
online transactions are an issue call 214 766 3260.

On Thursday, January 4th, Betsy Klesse and Jacquelyn Baumann were
interviewed on KWTX regarding the Mardi Gras Celebration of Art!
See the video here: http://tinyurl.com/KWTXMARDIGRAS ; to volunteer, donate or
for more information contact Betsy at meklesse@...  or Jacquelyn at
makeadiff2010@....

*Mardi Gras Celebration -- Parents needing childcare*
Parents, if you have a child who has autism and you are thinking about
going to Mardi Gras Celebration, but are having trouble finding a
babysitter, some Baylor students who work with our families may be
available for babysitting. Email anitakarney@... for more
information.

------------------------------------------------------------------

*NEXT "First Monday" Supper Club at Chili's -- Monday, February 6th, 2012at 6
pm*
Chili's, 5804 Bosque Blvd, Waco (254) 776-8330
The First Monday group is for all ages, but is more focused on those
under 13 and/or those that aren't quite as independent in ordering,
waiting, and paying for their meal. Kids all sit together with volunteers, while
parents sit elsewhere in the restaurant. Older kids will sit together at one
table with volunteers, and the younger group will be together with volunteers.
Contact Lisa Plemons at lisabplemons@...  for more information, and to RSVP.

*CHILI's partners with Heart of Texas Autism Network (HOTAN) every first Monday!
*
Whether you are part of the "First Monday" Supper Club for kids/youth on the
autism spectrum or not, come to Chili's at 5804 Bosque and *bring your flyer
*(print it from
http://www.hotautismnetwork.org/files/ChilisFlyerFEBRUARY2012.doc)
--- 10% of anything purchased (carry-out or dine-in) will benefit the Heart of
Texas Autism Network.
Funds will help us create/develop/strengthen the supports and resources in our
community for individuals living with autism spectrum disorder and thier
families.

--------------------------------------------------------

  ATTENTION PARENTS!! * Currently there is an upper-level undergraduate course at
Baylor University through the Dept of Psychology & Neuroscience, aimed towards
teaching students about children with autism.
* There are 8 students who expressed interest in working one-on-one with a
child.* Although these students are not formerly trained or licensed, they might
be helpful in doing "home visits" and working with you and your child  ... If
you would be interested please email both Danielle Young and Sarah Skipper.
Danielle Young: danielle_young@... Sarah Skipper:  
sarah_skipper@...

------------------------------------------------------------------

  *Saturday, February 25, 2012, Waco First Annual Texas Angels Special Needs
Pageant*
Lee Lockwood Scottish Rite Museum, 2801 W. Waco Drive, Waco, TX
KWTX interview with Tessanie Marek and Jamie Grisham:
http://www.kwtx.com/findit/headlines/01272012_-_Texas_Angels_Pageant_138165879.h\
tml
This pageant is open to boys and girls with special needs between birth and 21
years of age.
  There is no entry fee for competitors; enter by February 15.
The pageant will begin at 2 pm, but the day begins at 10 am, with snacks, fun
activities, and volunteers available to help "prep" the participants with hair,
makeup, stage rehearsal, and even wardrobe (with prior notice to the event
coordinators), etc.
Lunch will be included, and a reception in the lobby will follow the pageant.
For Pageant Entry form go to http://tinyurl.com/TXANGELENTRY, and to download a
flyer go to  http://tinyurl.com/TXANGELFLYER.
Entry forms may be faxed to (254) 299-1384 or scanned and emailed to
texasangelspageant@.... Sponsorship letters are available at
http://tinyurl.com/TXANGELLETTER.

   --------------------------------------------------------------------

  Creekside Christian Retreat - for families with children with autism
http://creeksidechristianretreat.blogspot.com/
   Robert and Sharon Kersten have a 65-acre property near Mexia, Texas, and are
in the process of obtaining a 501(c)3 for the purpose of creating a retreat for
families who have children with autism.  Focusing on autism and other special
needs populations and their families, it is the mission of Creekside Christian
Retreat to primarily provide therapeutic outdoor and indoor spaces and materials
to be collectively and collaboratively utilized by Christian educators, clergy,
mental health practitioners, volunteers, and other religious, health, and social
service entities, in order to facilitate on-site spiritual, educational,
therapeutic and recreational programming for these typically underserved
populations.
Plans for the property include a fenced playground with sensory areas as well as
an area for "hands-on" interaction with animals, areas in which to camp, and a
building in which to offer classes and services in an indoor environment. The
Kerstens are Texas Master Naturalists and Texas Master Gardeners, and plan to
work with therapists to develop outdoor programs and therapies specifically
designed for children with autism. "We are asking for autism groups, parents,
special education teachers and therapists to share with us your ideas and
desires for ways we can meet the needs of families living with autism in further
development."

  -------------------------------------------------------------------

  Parents Guide to Evidence-based Practice and Autism (Free publication)
  www.nationalautismcenter.org/learning/family.php
The *National Autism Center* has published a very extensive guide designed to
support parents as they make decisions about their child's treatment. It
discusses the complexity of diagnostic evaluations for children on the autism
spectrum, identifies and describes effective treatments, and outlines the
importance of professional judgment and using data to guide treatment decisions.
Other topics include the role of family preferences and values in the
decision-making process, and how best to determine if a professional or
organization has the capacity to provide evidence-based practice for a child
with autism.

  --------------------------------------------------------------------

Science Doesn’t Have to Be Scary: Understanding Research in the News and Making
Evidenced-Based Decisions (Free Webinar)
   Tuesday, February 7, 2012 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM CST
  https://www3.gotomeeting.com/register/805469230
  This webinar introduces the components of published research to parents and
non-medical professionals, giving a foundation of knowledge that will enable
participants to read published research and formulate meaningful questions for
their clinicians. They will also discuss research articles in the news, and ways
to become a critical consumer.
Presented by Anissa Ryland, Executive Director at The Johnson Center  in
collaboration with the Autism Research Institute.

  -------------------------------------------------------------------

  *Certificate in Autism Spectrum Disorder: University of Texas, Arlington
(Online)*

The *University of Texas at Arlington has developed the Autism Spectrum Disorder
Awareness Certificate online program,* to provide therapists and caregivers the
introduction, background, aptitude and skills needed to work effectively with
this growing special needs population. This Certificate requires the completion
of 4 required courses and a Portfolio Project.
Go to
https://www.uta.edu/wconnect/ShowSchedule.awp?~~GROUP~as
for more information and to enroll.
   =================================================================

*Give Autism A Chance!*
The Give Autism a Chance campaign was launched to spread the message that people
with autism have incredible potential, talent and skills.
They can have meaningful employment and contribute to society -- when given a
chance.

Give Autism A Chance began in Britain; 16-year-old Bella Tommey, whose brother
Billy is diagnosed with autism, set up Billy's Cafe, a temporary cafe staffed
almost entirely by individuals with autism. It opened to rave reviews throughout
England and Europe. Go to http://tinyurl.com/6lfhud9 and watch a report on the
very successful launch of Billy's Cafe!

*Give Autism A Chance is coming to Austin on April 22*, and will be setting up
at the Spider House Patio Bar and Cafe to showcase the talents and abilities of
people on the autism spectrum.

Grant Manier, one of the guest artists at Mardi Gras Celebration, will also be
at the Cafe on April 22, and designed the promotional flyer (Go to
www.hotautismnetwork.org/files/GiveAutismAChance.jpg
to see the flyer) Give Autism A Chance wants people with autism to send in
examples of artwork, jewelry, crafts --- whatever shows off that individual's
talent, whether created with or without support.

They are also looking for people with autism to work at the Cafe.

Go to
http://www.theautismtrustusa.org/images/stories/AutismTrustUSA_Flyers2011.pdf
for more information!

Recognise and celebrate the talents and skills of people with ASD ... give us a
chance to create a better community and a better world for all!

  *"It's not what we can't do ... it's what we CAN do!"*

  -----------------------------------------------------------------

  *MARCH 1: MEDICAID CHANGES*

CHILDREN'S DENTAL MANAGED CARE * *
Beginning March 1, 2012*, most children and young adults age 20 and younger
enrolled in Medicaid also will start getting dental services through a dental
plan.  More information regarding Dental Managed Care changes is available at:
www.hhsc.state.tx.us/medicaid/Children-Medicaid-Dental-Services.shtml
<http://www.hhsc.state.tx.us/medicaid/Children-Medicaid-Dental-Services.shtml>

*PHARMACY BENEFITS THROUGH MANAGED CARE*
In addition, the Texas Health and Human Services will now include pharmacy
benefits through STAR, STAR+PLUS and CHIP health plans.
The health plans will utilize the same preferred drug list as Medicaid.
More information is available at:
www.hhsc.state.tx.us/medicaid/Chip-Pharmacy-Benefits.shtml

The Childrens Policy Council
( http://www.hhsc.state.tx.us/si/cpc/index.shtml) would like to provide help
with the success of the roll-out by providing input to the Texas Health and
Human Service Commission to consider and address issues unique to children with
special needs.
Parents of special needs children are asked to please send comments and concerns
regarding transitioning to dental managed care plan, or receiving benefits
through pharmacy benefits program lrummel@... by  5 pm on Feb 10,
2012.
   ====================================================================== 
*Changes in DSM affecting Autism

The DSM (Diagnostic & Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders) published by the
American Psychiatric Association, contains descriptions, symptoms, and other
criteria to identify diagnosis of conditions. The latest edition, DSM-IV, was
published in 1994. The next revision, DSM-5, is expected to be published in May
2013. Proposed revisions to the manual will  change how autism and associated
disorders are diagnosed, and will affect eligibility for insurance, educational,
social and other services and programs.

  *DSM-5 May See Major Changes to Autism, Learning Disorders; Psychiatric News,
Feb 3, 2012*
Full article at:
http://psychnews.psychiatryonline.org/newsArticle.aspx?articleid=481201
  In early 2010, the American Psychiatric Association released draft revisions to
its Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5); the final
revision is expected to be published in May 2013.
  *Among the proposed revisions are:
  - *Changing criteria* for the definition of Autism Spectrum Disorder
   - *Merging* Asperger Syndrome, Childhood Disintegrative Disorder, and  PDDNOS
(Pervasive Developmental Disorder Not Otherwise Specified) under the  diagnosis
of Autism Spectrum Disorders, rather than defining them separately as is now the
case.
    - Removing Rett Syndrome from the Autism Spectrum Disorder category entirely.

  *Other significant changes: *
- *A new category, "Social Communication Disorder" criteria which    symptoms
are similar to those of autism but without the restrictive and    repetitive
behaviors characteristic of ASD. *Individuals who in the past    might have been
diagnosed as PDD-NOS could fall into this category.
  - *Significant changes have also been proposed for intellectual  development
disorder, formerly known as mental retardation, especially  in the area of
testing. Diagnosis would not be based solely on standardized    IQ testing but
would also include measuring functional,  “adaptive  behaviors”


  *CHART: Comparing current and proposed Autism Spectrum Disorder definitions in
the DSM (Diagnostic & Statistical Manual)*
  http://kgklaw.blogspot.com/2012/01/chart-below-compares-current-criteria.html


*New Definition of Autism Will Exclude Many, Study Suggests; New York Times, Jan
19, 2012*
http://www.nytimes.com/2012/01/20/health/research/new-autism-definition-would-ex\
clude-many-study-suggests.html?pagewanted=all
A recent article in the New York Times discussed the impact of some of the
proposed revisions to the DSM (Diagnostic & Statistical Manual) used by
physicians and insurance companies, and contains descriptions, symptoms, and
other criteria to identify diagnosis of conditions.


  *Redefinition of autism sparks concerns; Yale Daily News, Feb 2, 2012*
http://www.yaledailynews.com/news/2012/feb/02/autism-redefinition-sparks-concern\
s
Research by Yale Child Study Center Director Fred Volkmar suggests that the
revision may disqualify a large number of intellectually disabled patients from
receiving a diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder in the future.
”I think [the proposed revision] is a mistake,” Volkmar said.  “it changes
peoples eligibility for key services, and a lot of people expressed concern.”
  ======================================================================

  The Heart of Texas Autism Network <http://www.hotautismnetwork.org> (HOTAN)
provides support, encouragement and information for people affected by autism
spectrum disorder (ASD), their families and the community. We work to improve
the resources available to help people with ASD live, work and participate as
fully and independently as possible in our society. We promote inclusion,
independence and participation in the community for all people affected by ASD.

  HOTAN conducts workshops to educate and train parents, professionals and
community members; activities and programs to help children, youth and young
adults develop the tools they need to become as independent as possible in our
community; provides information, materials and networking for families and the
community; has monthly meetings feature speakers with free (trained) childcare
for families; and does outreach to area employers, professionals, and others to
raise autism awareness and transform misconceptions about people with
autism.Other activities and programs promote inclusion, independence and
participation in the community for all people affected by ASD.

*Join with us as we work to connect the pieces, building a better community for
all!*

Please send a message to waconewstouse@... if you wish to be taken off
this distribution. Thanks!

Reposted from another discussion group:
Hi! My name is Laura Dengler. I am a Ph.D. student in the Department of
Communication Sciences and Disorders at Penn State University. I work with Dr.
Kathryn Drager.

We hope that you can help us with some exciting research. We would like to learn
about the experience of being a parent of an adult with autism spectrum disorder
(ASD). We recognize that parents have many different experiences, and we are
interested in learning about the perspectives of parents of individuals with
Autism across the lifespan.

We are inviting parents of individuals with an ASD to join an online discussion
group. We want to learn about the experiences of those parents and how they
compare to parents in similar situations. We would like to learn about the
issues that parents feel are unique and specific to having a child with an ASD.
We would also like to learn about issues unique to have adult children with ASD.
We plan to share what we learn with each participant and other parents of
children with ASD.

We are currently looking for parents of adults with ASD to participate in a
discussion group that will begin in the next few weeks. At this time, we are
looking specifically for parents of adolescents and adults with ASD.

If you are a parent of an adult with ASD, please consider participating in this
important study. For more information, please e-mail me using my Penn State
e-mail address, at lfd116@....

Charis Hills Camp is a Christian Summer Camp in Sunset, Texas for children with
learning differences and social difficulties such as ADD, ADHD, High-Functioning
Autism, Asperger's disorder, and other special needs.  They will have an Open
House will be Saturday, April 28th from 10:00 until 2:00. For more information
contact 940-964-2145 or info@.... Website: WWW.CHARISHILLS.ORG

Does your area have anyone offering equine (horse) therapy? Swimming
for special needs? Music classes? Is it easy, or difficult, to find a
medical specialist for your special-needs family member where you
live? This online survey
(https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/SpecialNeedsResources) will only take
a few minutes. Please click on the link and help towards building a better
community for all of us!

Hello, everyone! *April is Autism Awareness Month *... and the *5th Annual Waco
Walk for Autism <http://www.hotautismnetwork.org>* is coming soon! The Walk is
scheduled for Sunday, April 15th, 2-5 pm, at Baylor University's Fountain Mall.
Registration forms are available online ... go to www.hotautismnetwork.org ...
or email wacowalk@... for more information.

Scroll down for news, and if you wish to be removed from distribution
please send an email to waconewstouse@....

Thanks very much!

------------------------------------------

*5th Annual Waco Walk for Autism*
*Sunday, April 15th, 2 - 5 pm, Baylor University Fountain Mall*
Music! Activities! Resource Fair! Baylor Autism Resource Center Open House! The
Leon River Band will be playing*, we'll have games and art activities for kids
of all ages, Resource Fair with area agencies/service providers,
and the Baylor Autism Resource Center Open House. Everyone is invited!
We encourage individuals or businesses to join together and participate as
teams.
Virtual, or *“Spirit Walkers”* are also welcome to support the cause from
anywhere in the world!
If you want to get a T-shirt, we MUST receive your registration forms by
April 2.
WALK INFORMATION GUIDE: Click
here<http://www.hotautismnetwork.org/files/2012WalkInformationGuide.pdf>
.  For TEAM Registration, click
here<http://www.hotautismnetwork.org/files/2012WalkTeamPacket.pdf>
.
ALL OTHER REGISTRATION (Individuals, Families, and Spirit Walkers) click
here <http://www.hotautismnetwork.org/files/2012WalkRegistrationPacket.pdf>
.
Walk with us to increase local opportunities and resources for our amazing,
incredible children, youth and adults with ASD.  Together, we can improve
life for our children, our families, and our community.
Whether you walk in body or spirit on April 15, walk with us for that one
day, and support those who walk with autism every day of their lives.  Any
questions, if you are interested in supporting the Walk, or participating
in the Resource Fair, or any other questions or comments, contact
wacowalk@..., or call 214-766-3260.
  CLICK HERE <http://www.hotautismnetwork.org/2012WALK.html> to find out
more about the Walk!  The 5th Annual Waco Walk for Autism is a
collaboration with Heart of Texas Autism Network, Baylor School of
Educational Psychology, and the Baylor Autism Resource Center.


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------\
-------

*Monday, March 19, 1 - 2 pm*

*FREE WORKSHOP!! **"**THE AUTISM SUPPLEMENT:  Eleven Essential Vitamins for
Your Child’s IEP"
**Texas Ranger Museum Education Center (I-35 and University Parks)*
Fran Templeton of Spectrum Autism Services will be presenting a FREE
workshop session on the Autism Supplement. Those 11 items that MUST be
considered by the ARD team include: Social Skills Supports, Teacher/Staff
support and training, Positive Behavioral Support Strategies ... and MORE
... *what does it mean for YOUR child?* Fran Templeton was instrumental in
bringing the Autism Supplement to the legislature and ensuring its passage.
She has consulted and conducted autism training for parents, families, and
school districts. Please RSVP, which will help us plan for how many
handouts. Click here for a flyer. *http://tinyurl.com/HOTANSpectrumMarch19*


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------\
----------------


*Monday, March 19, 6:30 - 8:00 pm *

*Heart of Texas Autism Network Meeting *
*NOTE THE DATE!*
811 Washington  (Baylor School of Social Work Building, at 8th &
Washington, downtown Waco);  9th floor
Due to Spring Break the week of March 12-16, the regular HOTAN meeting is
rescheduled from its regular second Monday of the month  to the third
Monday, *March 19*. Childcare is available, however you need to RSVP to
Natalie Passanante.
Please email your RSVP to Natalie  at natalie_passanante@...  ... If
you have not previously registered your children, please fill out the form
found at http://tinyurl.com/6kymn3s.
In April, the meeting will be April 16, 2012 (also the third Monday of the
month) due to Easter Monday holiday for Baylor campus on April 8.


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------\
---------------

*APRIL IS AUTISM AWARENESS MONTH!
**Help the Heart of Texas Autism Network KICK OFF Autism Awareness Month
Spaghetti Supper! **Saturday March 31st, 5:30 - 8:30 pm*

Austin Avenue Methodist Church in Waco, 1300 Austin Avenue, Waco Tx
*EVERYONE'S WELCOME!!*
Suggestion donation : Cans for Caritas, or $3/plate; First Responders in
uniform (or badge), $1/plate.
Come help us kick off Autism Awareness Month, There will be music, fun, and
fellowship!
Find out more about the Heart of Texas Autism Network, and tell us what you
would like to see for families and people living with autism in this
area. For a flyer, go to *http://tinyurl.com/HOTANAUTISMMONTH*

*
*
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------\
----------------
*"**Teen Plus" Supper Club: Tuesday MARCH 20th, 6 pm*
*Note the date* -- usually the Teen Plus group meets every 4th Tuesday, *but
this we are meeting on the Third Tuesday*.
NEWK's, at Central Texas Marketplace (Highway 6 and I-35)
For teens and young adults living with Asperger Syndrome and autism: this
group meets monthly at a location of their choice decided at the prior
month's meeting.  Socialising and having fun are the order of the day! Lisa
Plemons facilitates the group with a few volunteers. Usually the group
meets on the 4th Tuesday, but this month we are having the Supper Club on
  the 3rd Tuesday due to STAAR Testing. Contact Lisa Plemons at
lisabplemons@... for more information.


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------\
----------------
*"First Monday" Supper Club - Monday, April 2, 6:00 pm *
*Chili's - 5804 Bosque Blvd, Waco TX*
This Supper Club for kids/youth living with autism meets at Chili's at
Valley Mills & Bosque Blvd (5804 Bosque) the first Monday of each month at
6:00 pm.
Lisa Plemons (experienced Special Education teacher) facilitates, with
volunteers assisting.
Kids (from 6 to teens) sit together (sometimes at two tables grouped by
age), while parents/caregivers sit in another area of the restaurant.
Its a great way for the kids to build self-esteem and independence while
they have fun and make friends!
Chili's has been very supportive of the Supper Club, and the kids love
going every month!
Contact Lisa Plemons at lisabplemons@... for more information . Click
here for a flier: http://tinyurl.com/HOTANCHILISAPRIL


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------\
----------------

*Saturday, March 24
**Challenger Little League (Waco) – Register Now!
*Try-outs Saturday, March 24, at the Challenger/Don Deatherage field (Lake
Air Little League Fields)
Challenger Little League baseball is open to all children/youth (6-18, and
if in high school, up to 21) with physical or intellectual/developmental
disabilities.Participation is free. Uniforms are provided.

Call Don Deatherage at 254-867-6441  for more information.Click here for a
flyer http://tinyurl.com/WACOCHALLENGER2012

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------\
----------------
*
*
*Saturday, April 14, 2012 - 8:30 am - 1:00 pm
Faith-Based Special Needs Ministries Conference
*First Baptist Church Woodway, 101 Ritchie Rd, Waco Tx
*"Faith-Based Special Needs Ministry Conference: Where to Start & How to
Grow*"  is a free gathering hosted by First Baptist Church of
Woodway. Denise Briley, founder
of Joy Ministry at Graceview Baptist Church in Tomball, Texas will be the
keynote speaker.  Leaders of congregations, staff members, volunteer
coordinators, and parents are welcome to attend.
* Sadly, those who most need the support and strength that a family of
faith can offer, often do not have any relationship with local
congregations.  This conference is a chance to help change that
picture.*Register at
http://www.fbcwoodway.org/special-needs-conference.


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------\
----------------
*April 22, 2012, Austin: *
*GIVE AUTISM A CHANCE - Cafe for a Day*
An exciting opportunity for people with autism (all ages) is coming to
Austin on April 22. "Give Autism A Chance" seeks to demonstrate that people
with autism have talents, abilities, and unique gifts to contribute to
society. People with autism can have meaningful employment and  contribute
much to society ... when given a chance.  The Spider House Patio Bar and
Cafe will host Give Autism A Chance on April 22. Grant Manier, one of the
guest artists at the Mardi Gras Celebration of Art, designed the flyer (
http://tinyurl.com/CAFE4ADAY); he will be at the Cafe on April 22.
If you are a person with autism spectrum disorder, and would like to help
out that day as a greeter, wait staff, etc, contact
polly.tommey@....
Give Autism A Chance wants people with autism to send in examples of
artwork, jewelry, crafts --- whatever shows off that individual's talent,
whether created with or without support.
Go to
http://www.theautismtrustusa.org/images/stories/AutismTrustUSA_Flyers2011.pdf
for
more information.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------\
----------------
*Round Rock: “An Independent Me” (AIM) Community Living*
*AIM is a new community living option in Round Rock, on 18 acres. *
AIM, an AutismTrustUSA community,  is a living experience with an emphasis
on vocational, educational and life skills training designed specifically
for the needs of those with Aspergers/Autism.  AIM has a vocational program
that offers habilitation programming and skills development. The program
has a ceramic studio and a horticulture program with one fully functioning
greenhouse, landscaping  enclave and a visual arts program which work out
in the community. For more information go to http://livingwithmeaning.org.
They are also on Facebook at
http://www.facebook.com/AnIndependentMe<http://www.facebook.com/AnIndependentMe>


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------\
----------------
*Round Rock: Play for All Abilities Park*
http://www.roundrocktexas.gov/playforall
* Round Rock's new Play for All Abilities Park* is a 51,000 square foot
gated park for children of all abilities in Round Rock and surrounding
areas. Among its many features: Retreat Pod, Sensory Pod-Sand Box, Rock
Band Pod, Rolling Hill/Performance Lawn, Sensory Pod, All Abilities
Playscape, All Ability Swings, and the Brushy Creek Village life skills
area, and more!


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------\
----------------

*Special Needs Respites:*
*Children's Special Needs Network
**The Children's Special Needs Network (www.special-children.org)  holds
Respites once a month *
*in Hillsboro, Temple, Killeen and Waco.
*Respite is essential to the well-being of caregivers, as well as
their children
and youth with special needs. The children enjoy a few hours of fun and
have new experiences, while their caregivers are given an opportunity to
rest and take care of themselves for a change.
First Saturday: Hillsboro, 3 - 7 pm; contact Sarah Baze  at
hillsbororespite@...
Second Saturday: Temple: 12 - 4 pm; contact Jennie Schneider at
Jschneider@...
Third Saturday: Killeen: 1 - 5 pm; contact Tracy Hanson at
Killeen223@...
Fourth Saturday: Waco, 1 - 5 pm; contact Melinda Bell at
wacorespite@...
*Contact the Respite coordinators for more information. *

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------\
----------------

*Study: Many Adults With Disabilities Do Nothing All Day
*http://www.disabilityscoop.com/2012/02/15/study-adults-do-nothing/14994/
*A significant number of adults with developmental disabilities have no
regular, daily activities,* a situation that's symptomatic of larger
problems, new research indicates.


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------\
----------------
*Wall Street Journal: Tax Deductions for Special Needs
*
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052970203537304577030453437780894.html
*More than six million children in the U.S. fall into the "special needs"
category,* *and their ranks are expanding*. The number of those affected by
one developmental disability alone—autism—grew more than 70% between 2005
and 2010. The tax code can help—if you know where to look.
Other articles:
*Tax Benefits for Taxpayers with Disabilities and Parents of Children
with Disabilities;* Wrightslaw Newsletter
http://www.wrightslaw.com/info/tax.credits.2011.htm
*Tax Strategies for Parents of Kids with Special Needs*; TACA.org
http://www.tacanow.org/family-resources/tax-strategies-for-parents-of-kids-with-\
special-needs/

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------\
----------------
*The Medicaid Reference Desk* (http://www.thedesk.info)  is a tool to help
people with intellectual and developmental disabilities find out what
Medicaid can offer them. The Medicaid Reference Desk offers detailed,
state-by-state information about Medicaid benefits, a glossary of terms,
answers to frequently asked questions, person-centered planning resources
and a blog from The Arc’s training specialist about issues related to
Medicaid, self-advocacy and person-centered planning.
*Often the only source of financial assistance for health care, Medicaid
plays a critical role for people with disabilities in providing coverage
and access to care. * Medicaid is, however, extremely complicated. Federal
law contains detailed requirements and limitations on eligibility,
services, and financing. In addition, state law varies widely. The
Reference Desk is a project of The Arc <http://www.thearc.org/> and
the Administration
on Developmental Disabilities <http://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/add/>.


------------------------------------------------------
*Article:  Present Levels in IEPs -- *Wrightslaw Special Ed Advocate
newsletter:
http://www.wrightslaw.com/nltr/12/nl.0306.htm
Do you know what part of the IEP describes your child's unique needs that result
from his disability? *All IEPs must include Present Levels of Academic
Achievement and Functional Performance* that describe what your child knows and
is able to do (or not do). Readers will learn the
requirements for Present Levels in IEPs and h*ow they are used to develop
measurable goal*s to meet your child's unique needs and monitor his progress.



--------------------------------------------------------------------------------\
----------------
*Article: Roadmap to IDEA 2004 -- What You Need to Know About IEPs & IEP
Meetings (*Wrightslaw Newsletter)
http://www.wrightslaw.com/idea/art/iep.roadmap.htm
When Congress reauthorized IDEA 2004, they made significant changes to
Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) in several areas, including: *Contentof
IEPs; IEP meeting attendance; IEPs by agreement; Review and revision ofIEPs;
Transition; and Alternate means of participating in meetings.* Thearticle
provides a roadmap to changes in IEPs and IEP meetings under IDEA
2004.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------\
----------------

*Heart of Texas Autism Network: eBay Giving Works
**Are you an eBay seller*? The Heart of Texas Autism Network is registered with
eBay's Giving Works program  (http://tinyurl.com/eBayHOTAN )! You can donate
part, or all, of a listed item's sale price to the Heart of TexasAutism Network.
If *you buy anything* on eBay, *you can add a $1 (or more)donation *to the total
of any purchase on eBay with PayPal, a*nd anyone can
make an immediate donation *with their PayPal account (
http://www.ebaygivingworks.com/donatenow.html).

For more information about Heart of Texas Autism Network, go to
www.hotautismnetwork.org/describe.html

-------------------------------------------------------------------
MORE information on area activities, meetings, events etc is available at
www.hotautismnetwork.org/activities.html
and
www.hotautismnetwork.org/conferencesandstudies.html ...

If you have an event or activity, go to
http://www.hotautismnetwork.org/contact_us.html or send an email to
waconewstouse@... ...



Thank you!


[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

Hello, everyone!April is *Autism Awareness Month* ... and the
*5th Annual Waco Walk for Autism *is almost here!The Walk is scheduled for
Sunday, April 15th, 2-5 pm, at Baylor University's Fountain Mall.
*If you want to get a free T-shirt, registration forms need to be received by
April 2! *
Registration forms are available online ... go to www.hotautismnetwork.org  ...
or email wacowalk@... for more information.
Scroll down for news. The Heart of Texas Autism Network is also on Facebook.
Come visit our Facebook
page<http://www.facebook.com/pages/Heart-of-Texas-Autism-Network-HOTAN/100535853\
393127>

Thanks very much!

----------------------------------------------

*Saturday, March 31, 5:30 – 8:30 pm
Autism Awareness Month Spaghetti Supper “Kick-Off”
*Austin Avenue Methodist Church, 1300 Austin Avenue
Come to Austin Avenue Methodist Church on Saturday, March 31st to kick off
Autism Awareness Month!
*Cans for Caritas*, and/or $*3/plate donation* (for *first responders in uniform
or with badge, $1/plate)*
For more info please email wacowalk@...
*For a flyer, click
here<http://hotautismnetwork.org/files/SpaghettiSupperAutismMonth.doc>
*

-------------------------------------------------

*Waco Mayor Jim Bush proclaims April as Autism Awareness Month
*Not only nationally and internationally, but here in Waco, Mayor Jim Bush
proclaimed April to be Autism Awareness Month for the city at the City Council
meeting Tuesday, March 20th. Go to http://tinyurl.com/WACOAPRIL to see the
proclamation.

  -------------------------------------------------

*Sunday, April 15 2-5 pm, * *5th Annual Waco Walk for Autism**
Baylor University Fountain Mall* FREE T-SHIRT DEADLINE!!! If you want to get
your free tshirt your registration (individuals and teams) MUST BE RECEIVED by
APRIL 2!! It’s going to be a great day: *Leon River Band i*s playing, we’ll
have dance exhibition by *Ballet Folklorico Tapatio*; kids activities and games,
Resource Fair providing information on area programs and services; and the
Baylor Autism Resource Center will have their Open House!
You can also be a *“Spirit Walker”* and walk with us from anywhere in the
world!
Registration forms and Walk Information sheet available at
www.hotautismnetwork.org/2012WALK.html
For more info please email wacowalk@...

--------------------------------------------------

*Thursday, March 29, 7 pm; **Special Abilities Boy Scout Troop (Waco)*
Call 214-766-3260 or email wacospecialneedsboyscout@... for more
information Experience all the adventures and opportunities Scouting offers:
learn new skills, have fun activities, and participate with the community. The
troop will work together with other troops and the community, to empower and
enable our Scouts to develop their skills and talents, and grow towards more
independence. For a flyer, CLICK
HERE<http://hotautismnetwork.org/files/BoyScoutSpecialNeedsTroop.doc>

--------------------------------------------------
*
Saturday March 31, 6 – 9 pm Spring Fling Dance – sponsored by Special
Olympics and Baylor Urban Missions *Russell Gym at Baylor University, Waco Come
learn about what Special Olympics is doing in the community! There’ll be
games, music, and fun!
Go to http://hotautismnetwork.org/activities.html, or contact Alexis
Carlsson at alexis_carlsson@..., or specialneeds@...

---------------------------------------------------
*Sunday, April 1st, 3 pm: LET’S GET GROWING (Waco)
**led by Texas Master Gardener and Master Naturalist Lynn DeMuynck!*
Next class meets* Sunday, April 1st at 3 pm*, at the Waco “We Care”
community garden. Texas Master Gardener/Master Naturalist Lynn DeMuynck leads
participants in adventures with Nature. In addition to learning about plants,
students also do 'hands-on' activities and take-home materials and projects. The
Heart of Texas Autism Network also participates in Waco's "We Care" Community
Garden, taking care of two of the Garden's large planters, and contributing the
harvest to Caritas. The group meets every 2 weeks. For more information email
anitakarney@...
*
*
--------------------------------------------------

*FIRST MONDAY Supper Club at Chili's: Monday, April 2, 2012 6 pm (Waco)*
This Supper Club for kids/youth living with autism meets at Chili's  the first
Monday of each month at 6:00 pm. Lisa Plemons  (experienced Special Education
teacher) facilitates with  volunteers.
Kids (from 6 to teens) sit together (sometimes at two  tables grouped by age),
while parents/caregivers sit in another area of the restaurant. Its a great way
for the kids to build  self-esteem and independence while they have fun and make
friends! Chili's has been very supportive of the Supper Club, 
<http://hotautismnetwork.org/files/ChilisFlyerAPRIL2012.doc>
for flyer <http://hotautismnetwork.org/files/ChilisFlyerAPRIL2012.doc>) and
the kids love going every month!  Contact Lisa  Plemons at
lisabplemons@... for more information. *CHILI's partners with the Heart of
Texas Autism Network EVERY MONTH, if you come in any time from 11 am to closing,
and bring in the flyer (*CLICK
HERE <http://hotautismnetwork.org/files/ChilisFlyerAPRIL2012.doc>*),
CHili's will donate 10% of the purchase price to HOTAN. *Chili's has been very
supportive of our Supper Club and the kids love going there every month!

-------------------------------------------------

*Wednesday, April 11, 2012, 6 - 8 pm; FUNdraiser for BARC (Baylor Autism
Resource Center)*
*U Swirl Yogurt *100 New Road, Waco (in the Academy parking lot across from
Lowes). Students get a 10% price discount. Tell the server you are with the BARC
fundraiser and 20% of profits will benefit the BARC!

------------------------------------------------
*
Saturday, April 14, 2012 - 8:30 am - 1:00 pm (Waco)*
*"Faith-Based Special Needs Ministry Conference: Where to Start & How to Grow"
*First Baptist Church Woodway, Ministry Activity Center (MAC), #A200; 101
Ritchie Rd, Waco TX A free gathering, hosted by First Baptist Church Woodway.
Denise Briley, founder of Joy Ministry at Graceview Baptist Church in Tomball,
Texas will be the keynote speaker.
Leaders of congregations, staff members, volunteer coordinators, and
parents are welcome to attend. Sadly, those who most need the support and
strength that a family of faith can offer, often do not have any
relationship with local congregations. This conference is a chance to help
change that picture.
Register at http://www.fbcwoodway.org/special-needs-conference.

--------------------------------------------------

*Monday, April 23, 1:00-2:00 pm : SOCIAL THINKING for children/youth/adults
individuals with autism spectrum disorders .. *
*Parent Training with Fran Templeton (Spectrum Autism Services)* *
*Texas Ranger Museum Education Center (I-35 and University Parks)
“Social Thinking” is an award-winning, effective and therapeutic approach to
teaching the developmental *social cognitive thinking skills necessary for
students to learn how to interact socially*. *It is a developmental, behavioral
approach* to teaching social behavior and thinking concepts,  and has been shown
to help persons at all developmental levels. For a flyer, go to 
*http://tinyurl.com/WACOSPECTRUMAPRIL*

--------------------------------------------------

*TUESDAY APRIL 24th, TEEN PLUS Supper Club .. FUDDRUCKERS on Valley Mills Drive,
Waco -- 6 pm*
  This is a group of teens and young adults living with Asperger Syndrome and 
autism, who meet monthly at a location of their choice  (decided at the prior
month's meeting.) Socialising and having fun are the order of the day!   Lisa
Plemons facilitates the group with a few volunteers. Contact Lisa at
lisabplemons@... for more information.

*Show Your Support for Autism at Fuddruckers!*
All during April, f*or Autism Awareness Month, FUDDRUCKERs* has donation slips
available to 'buy', write your name and have it posted to show your support for
autism programs in our community. Proceeds benefit Heart of Texas Autism
Network's efforts.* Restaurants in Waco, Killeen and Temple are participating!*

--------------------------------------------------


*Saturday, April 28th, Waco: Special Olympics Region 12 Area Spring Games
*Connally High School, Cadet Field; 200 Cadet Way; Waco
http://area12.eventbrite.com/ Special Olympian athletes from around the area
will converge on Waco for a day of track and field competition! Volunteer
opportunities include:
stagers, athlete escorts, souvenirs, athlete meals, equipment, set-up,
breakdown,  awards, measurers, water brigade, floaters, volunteer check-in,
medical support, and Athlete Village. For more information contact: Tommy Smith
254.230.4824 or tsmith@...


  --------------------------------------------------



Sunday, April 29, 11 am - 4:30 pm; "JOIN THE PRIDE: CELEBRATE DIFFERENCES,
CELEBRATE SUCCESS" -- *Cameron Park Zoo, 1701 North 4th Street, Waco TX *The
Waco Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities, Cameron Park Zoo, and
more than 20 state and local organizations have joined together to raise
awareness about the special abilities of people with disabilities. Zoo visitors
can attend presentations and receive information from various organizations that
serve people who are differently-abled.

--------------------------------------------------

*Friday, May 4 and Saturday, May 5: TRANSITION Conference for Students
(Friday) and Families (Saturday) -- **McLennan** Community College, Waco  *
www.esc12.net
Education Service Center Region 12 hosts a transition fair for area youth with
disabilities, families, professionals and community members. Friday's event
gives area youth a chance to see and hear first-hand what is available in their
communities and prepare for the future. Saturday's event provides families,
professionals and community members with resources and information to assist
individuals with disabilities to transition to life after high school, be
independent and included in their communities. Various sessions will be provided
throughout the day related to: consumer directed services, behavior, anxiety and
depression/stages of grief, transition, the ARD process, nutritional
interventions, guardianship, special needs trusts, medicaid waiver programs, and
social security as well as various vendors with a wealth of resources to meet
diverse needs. As part of this conference, the Waco Mayor's Committee on
People with Disabilities annual movie screening will feature: "Including Samuel
<http://includingsamuel.com/home.aspx>",photojournalist Daniel
Habib's documentary about his son, Samuel, and their efforts to provide a
inclusive education for him.

*OTHER ACTIVITIES:*

*Challenger Little League: Waco SIGN UP/REGISTER NOW!*
Special needs children of school age (ages 5-18; if still in High School,age
21)Registration form available at http://tinyurl.com/WACOBASEBALL; for
moreinformation contact Don Deatherage, 254-867-6441 Teams are forming and
uniforms are being ordered, if you wish to register your child sign up now!
Games are Tuesday or Thursday evenings depending on team schedules, and Saturday
mornings, in April  and May (ending June 2). Games are played at Lake Air Little
League Fields on the Challenger/Don Deatherage field (near City of Waco
Recycling Center )
There is no registration fee, sponsors provide team hats and shirts;
players provide their own gloves.

--------------------------------------------------

*Wednesday, March 28, 2012 6:30 pm  Special Teams Baseball: Belton  (First
practice date, and deadline to register)
Belton, Chisolm Trail Park *For children age 5 (by January 1, 2012) to age
21.The deadline to register or order extra shirts is Wed. March 28th. Uniforms
will be ordered on Thursday, March 29th so we can have them in time for pictures
and our first game. You do not have to live in Belton, any special-needs
families in the surrounding areas who would like to participate are welcome (for
example
Temple, Salado, Academy, Killeen, Holland, Rogers, etc).
Cost is $40.00. If you are having financial difficulty and the cost of
baseball is what is holding you back from signing up, email Susie Marek at
susiemarek@...; sponsors may be found for your child. All information will
be kept confidential.
Games will take place on Thursday evenings at 6:30pm and 7:30pm at Chisholm
Trail Park.
--------------------------------------------------

*Sunday April 1, Bike Ride for Autism: Georgetown**Berry Springs Park &
Preserve* Fundraiser for Austin Chapter of Autism Society: for more information
go to http://austinautismbikeride.org/default.aspx

--------------------------------------------------
*
Monday, April 2, 6 - 8 pm; Lion's Gate Park, Killeen: "Light it up Blue" Autism
Walk*
1600 E Stan Schlueter Loop, Killeen Wear Blue! For more information contact
Valerie Hughes 254-338-7235 or Fefee Franklin 254-535-0738

--------------------------------------------------

*Thursday, April 5th, Big T's Buddies' Autism Support Network (Fairfield Autism
Support Group) 6 pm * Fairfield Senior Center/Freestone County Senior Services
*Lynette Louise, MS, BCN-T, CBS, an internationally recognized autism expert,*
will be the guest presenter at the April 5th meeting of Big T's Buddies' Autism
Support Network.  Lynette has been working with autism since the mid 1980's when
she adopted four toddlers, all of whom were diagnosed with varying degrees of
autism.  *In 2004, Lynette founded the Brain and Body Clinic, a treatment center
for autism and other brain
disorders using neurofeedback,* a therapy that improves functioning by
training individuals to control their own brainwave activity. She has
successfully helped clients with Biopolar Disorder, Cerebral Palsy,
Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, Tourettes Syndrome, seizure disorders, ADHD,
depression, addictions, Sensory Integration Dysfunction and Traumatic Brain
Injury. She is also a published author, theatrical performer and radio
personality. Her internet radio talk show can be found at http://
www.webtalkradio.net/shows/a-new-spin-on-autism-answers/

--------------------------------------------------

*April 22, 2012, 12 – 3 pm, Austin: GIVE AUTISM A CHANCE - Cafe for a Day *An
exciting opportunity forpeople with autism (all ages) is coming to Austin on
April 22.
"Give Autism A Chance" seeks to demonstrate that people with autism have
talents, abilities, and unique gifts to contribute to society. People with
autism can have meaningful employment and contribute much to society ...
when given a chance. The *Spider House Patio Bar and Cafe* will host Give Autism
A Chance on April 22. From noon until 3pm, people with Autism and Aspergers ages
16 and up (if appropriate, with a “shadow” helper) will work at Spider House
Café, using modified menus created for the event. Each waiter will be assigned
one to two tables. Every worker and shadow will get a T-Shirt.  Every worker
will share in the tip jar. The event will be filmed and photographed.  They will
also be displaying artwork and film by those with an ASD diagnosis. If you would
like to participate, contact Angela Day, at 512-656-6364 or by email
aday@.... Go to
http://hotautismnetwork.org/files/GiveAutismAChance.jpg for more
information.

--------------------------------------------------

*April 28, 2012 10 am - 2 pm: Charis Hills Open House (Sunset TX)*
A Christian camp for children with learning and behavior difficulties. For more
information contact 940-964-2145 or info@...

-------------------------------------------------

*Special Needs Respites: Children's Special Needs Network
*The Children's Special Needs Network (www.special-children.org) holds
monthly Respites in Hillsboro, Temple, Killeen and Waco.
Respite is essential to the well-being of caregivers, as well as their
children and youth with special needs. The children enjoy a few hours of fun and
have new experiences, while their caregivers are given an
opportunity to rest and take care of themselves for a change.
*First Saturday: Hillsboro, *3 - 7 pm; contact Sarah Baze at
hillsbororespite@...
*Second Saturday: Temple:* 12 - 4 pm; contact Jennie Schneider at
Jschneider@...
*Third Saturday: Killeen:* 1 - 5 pm; contact Tracy Hanson at
killeenrespite@...
*Fourth Saturday: Waco*, 1 - 5 pm; contact Melinda Bell at
wacorespite@...
Contact the Respite coordinators for more information.

*FOR MORE ACTIVITIES *etc, go to
http://hotautismnetwork.org/activities.html  and
http://hotautismnetwork.org/conferencesandstudies.html


*Resources:
**Temple Grandin’s New Book: “Different 
 Not Less: Inspiring Stories of
Achievement and Successful Employment from Adults with Autism, Asperger's, and
ADHD” – to be published in April 2012
*Available for purchase online and at local bookstores and libraries.
EXCERPT from Amazon Review “One of the most important missions Temple Grandin
has is making sure people with autism and Asperger's make something of their
lives ...These individuals often have great potential in parts of their minds
that neurotypicals never even start to tap. However, in order to share their
hidden genius, they have to overcome many social obstacles.
The point of this groundbreaking work is - it is possible ...  Let these
crusaders, handpicked by Temple herself, show how it can be done."

--------------------------------------------------

*12 new Autism Books - Publishers Weekly "Tip Sheet":
*
http://www.publishersweekly.com/pw/by-topic/book-news/tip-sheet/article/51203-pw\
-tip-sheet-this-week-in-autism.html

*Publisher's Weekly* found a 533% increase in books on autism over the past
dozen years, from 175 in 2000 to 932 in 2011. This week, *12 new books are
highlighted in it's "Tip Sheet" column*.

*The Autism Puzzle*: Brenda Belli
Belli looks at the cumulative effect of household chemicals and
medications, including mercury—but from fish, not vaccines 
 Other triggers
include flame retardants, pesticides, certain drugs administered during
pregnancy, and ingredients commonly found in hairspray and many kinds of
plastic (including food containers and shrink-wrap).

*Autism: A Practical Guide to Improving Your Child's Quality of Life* by
Jonathan and Polly Tommey
UK parents of a child diagnosed with severe autism, who armed themselves
with knowledge and ultimately started an autism clinic and a quarterly
magazine called The Autism File. *(NOTE: Ms Tommey is also founder of The
AutismTrust, whose US branch, AutismTrustUSA, is involved with the “Give
Autism A Chance” CafĂ©-for-a-Day on April 22, in Austin)-*

*The Autism Revolution: Whole-Body Strategies for Making Life All It Can Be* by
Martha Herbert and Karen Weintraub
Takes an all-the-above approach to curbing the more destructive and
dispruptive symptoms, involving “optimal” nutrition, avoiding toxins and
stress, and shoring up the immune system.

*Autistic? How Silly is That!: I Don't Need Any Labels at All *by Lynda
Farrington Wilson
A picture book that shows kids with autism that they are more than a label,
and how autism is just one of many qualities they posess.

C*arly's Voice: Breaking Through Autism* by Arthur Fleischmann with Carly
Fleischmann.
The Fleischmanns tell the story of their daughter, Carly, who lagged behind
her twin sister in speaking and crawling, was diagnosed as pervasively
developmentally delayed, but today takes mainstream gifted classes and
serves as an autism spokesperson.

A* Full Life With Autism: From Learning to Forming Relationships to
Achieving Independence*
By Chantal Sicile-Kira and her 23-year-old son Jeremy Sicile-Kira, who has
autism; and with a foreword by Temple Grandin
A guide to the next phase of life for those with autism, the tricky
transitional years from child to adult, focusing on practical matters like
finding and keeping a meaningful job, finding adult resources, living apart
from family, and developing new relationships.

*The Golden Hat: Talking Back to Autism* by Kate Winslet
Movie star Kate Winslet got involved with autism after narrating a
documentary on autism (A Mother’s Courage).  She established the Golden Hat
Foundation to raise money and create learning communities for children with
autism.

*The Kid-Friendly ADHD & Autism Cookbook: The Ultimate Guide to the
Gluten-Free, Casein-Free Diet* by Pamela J. Compart
Updated and revised with current research findings as well as hundreds of
recipes and tips for winning over picky eaters.

*Kids Beyond Limits b*y Anat Baniel
Focuses on physical movement to develop self-awareness and “harness the
brain’s capacity to heal itself” in children with autism as well as ADHD
and other disorders.

*The Neurofeedback Solution* by Stephen Larsen
Takes a look at the methods and potential of the therapeutic technique
called neurofeedback, alone and in combination with breathwork,
mindfulness, meditation, and other exercises.

*Next Stop: A Memoir of Family* by Glen Finland.
Finland tells the story of her son David’s struggles with autism, and the
family’s struggle to maintain their sanity and civility, on the way to
establishing an independent and productive adulthood for David.

T*he PRT Pocket Guide: Pivotal Response Treatment for Autism Spectrum
Disorders, *by Robert L. and Lynn Kern Koegel
A mainstream approach to autism that uses “natural learning opportunities
to modify pivotal areas of behavior.”

  --------------------------------------------------

*The Brain -- The Troublesome Bloom of Autism: Discover Magazine, March 2012
*
http://discovermagazine.com/2012/mar/07-the-brain-troublesome-bloom-autism/artic\
le_view?b_start:int=0&-C=
  Neuroscientist Eric Courchesne has found that as they develop, autistic
brains grow, especially in the prefrontal cortex, the region just behind
the eyes that is responsible for language, decisions, and other
sophisticated thinking. Courchesne also saw an increase in both the gray
matter (consisting of dense clusters of neurons) and the white matter
linking different regions of the brain. This explosive neural expansion
continued in many autistic children until the age of 5, and then it
stopped. Past that age, Courchesne found, the rate of brain growth slowed
in autistic children, falling behind that of ordinary children. By the teen
years, some brain regions actually started to shrink.

--------------------------------------------------

*People With Autism Possess Greater Ability to Process Information, Study
Suggests – Science Daily, March 22
*http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2012/03/120322100313.htm
People with autism have a greater than normal capacity for processing
information even from rapid presentations and are better able to detect
information defined as 'critical',

--------------------------------------------------

*ONLINE DEVELOPMENTAL SCREENING AND TRACKING TOOL (birth to 5 yrs):
*
https://asqonline.com/family/993-screening-family-access-open-asq-3-english/star\
t Easter Seals has provided free access to the Ages and Stages Questionnaire
(ASQ). parents and caregivers to easily track their children’s’ development
through age 5 by means of a free online screening tool.Traditionally used by
clinicians, therapists, professionals, and educators,Brookes Publishing’s Ages
& Stages Questionnaire (ASQ)Âź is now available to parents and caregivers on
Easter Seals' Make the First Five Count web site.
Parents and caregivers can use it to monitor child development and identify
areas of concern, tracking communication, gross motor, fine motor, problem
solving, and personal social skills.

--------------------------------------------------

“*Could My Child Have Autism?” Ten Signs of Possible Autism-Related Delays
in 6- to 12-Month-Old Children:* Kennedy Kreieger Institute; 3/26/2012
http://www.newswise.com/articles/view/587342/
While not all infants and toddlers with delays will develop autism spectrum
disorders (ASD), experts point to early detection of these signs as key to
capitalizing on early diagnosis and intervention, which is believed to improve
developmental outcomes.

--------------------------------------------------

*‘Toolkit’ makes bedtime less stressful for children with autism
*
http://kc.vanderbilt.edu/site/newsandevents/news/page.aspx?id=3325
3/9/2012: The Vanderbilt Kennedy Center has created a resource with AutismSpeaks
to help improve sleep for children and teens affected by autism spectrum
disorder. This new toolkit, titled “Sleep Strategies for Children with Autism:
A Parent’s Guide,” offers strategies to help families whose children with
autism have difficulty falling asleep and staying asleep through the night.
--------------------------------------------------

*Round Rock: Play for All Abilities Park*
http://www.roundrocktexas.gov/playforall
Round Rock's new Play for All Abilities Park is a 51,000 square foot gated park
for children of all abilities in Round Rock and surrounding areas.
Among its many features: etreat Pod, Sensory Pod-Sand Box, Rock Band Pod,
Rolling Hill/Performance Lawn, Sensory Pod, All Abilities Playscape, All Ability
Swings, and the Brushy Creek Village life skills area, and more!

--------------------------------------------------

*Round Rock: “An Independent Me” (AIM) Community Living
*AIM is a new community living option in Round Rock, on 18 acres.
AIM, an AutismTrustUSA community, is a living experience with an emphasis on
vocational, educational and life skills training designed specifically for the
needs of those with Aspergers/Autism.
AIM has a vocational program that offers habilitation programming and
skills development. The program has a ceramic studio and a horticulture program
with one fully functioning greenhouse, landscaping enclave and a visual arts
program which work out in the community.
For more information go to http://livingwithmeaning.org.
They are also on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/AnIndependentMe


--------------------------------------------------

For more information about Heart of Texas Autism Network, go to
www.hotautismnetwork.org/describe.html


MORE information on area activities, meetings, events etc is available at
www.hotautismnetwork.org/activities.html and
www.hotautismnetwork.org/conferencesandstudies.html ...



*If you have an event or activity,* go to
http://www.hotautismnetwork.org/contact_us.html or send an email to
waconewstouse@... ...


*
Heart of Texas Autism
Network: eBay Giving Works*
Are you an eBay seller? The Heart of Texas Autism Network is registered with
eBay's Giving Works program  (http://tinyurl.com/eBayHOTAN )! You can donate
part, or all, of a listed item's sale price to the Heart of Texas Autism
Network. If you buy anythingon eBay, you can add a $1 (or more)
donation to the total of any purchase on eBay with PayPal, and anyone can make
an immediate donation with their PayPal account (
http://www.ebaygivingworks.com/donatenow.html).

Thank you!


[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

You may have heard .. the CDC (Centers for Disease Control) released new
numbers yesterday: autism (aka autism spectrum disorders, or ASD) affects *1
in 88*, and *1 in 54 boys.  *

CDC has been tracking ASDs for over a decade in 14 areas of the United
States. When they say that the rate is 1 in 88 and 1 in 54, they are
reporting *the number of 8 year old children with a diagnosis of ASD in
2008.  *

The first set of data they collected for 8 year olds in those 14 areas was
for the year 2000, when there were 1 in 150 children identified.

From* 2000 to 2008, the number of 8-year-old children with autism rose by
78%. *
See a summary of the report here:
http://autismsciencefoundation.wordpress.com/2012/03/29/a-summary-of-the-cdc-aut\
ism-prevalence-report/

If the trend has continued in the same direction since then, current
numbers are even worse.

It's absolutely critical that the community is aware of this epidemic (the
CDC has called it "an urgent health concern"), and its implications to our
society. But awareness is only the first step. Beyond awareness, we need
meaningful action.

Please consider contributing to an online survey on resources in this
region, *whether you are a parent, teacher, friend, a person living with autism,
etc: https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/SpecialNeedsResources

Also, *the 5th Annual Waco Walk for Autism will be Sunday, April 15* will be 2-5
pm at Baylor University (go to
http://hotautismnetwork.org/2012WALK.html  for registration forms).


*Waco Mayor Jim Bush proclaims April as Autism Awareness Month
*

*“During Autism Awareness Month, we pledge to increase awareness of this
urgent health issue, bringing hope to families and others affected by this
condition.”*

Not only nationally and internationally, but here in Waco, Mayor Jim Bush
proclaimed April to be Autism Awareness Month for the city at the City Council
meeting Tuesday, March 20th. Go to http://tinyurl.com/WACOAPRIL to
see the proclamation! Thank you Mayor Bush and City of Waco!



  *Sunday, April 15 2-5 pm,  5th Annual Waco Walk for Autism
Baylor University Fountain Mall

It’s going
to be a great day: *Leon River Band i*s playing, we’ll have dance
exhibition by *Ballet Folklorico Tapatio*; kids activities and games,
Resource Fair providing information on area programs and services; and the
Baylor Autism Resource Center will have their Open House!
*You can also be a “Spirit Walker” and walk with us from anywhere in the
world! *
Registration forms and Walk Information sheet available at
www.hotautismnetwork.org/2012WALK.html
For more info please email wacowalk@...


For more information about Heart of Texas Autism Network click on
http://hotautismnetwork.org/describe.html

We are also on Facebook.

If you have an event or activity to share, go to
www.hotautismnetwork.org/contact_us.html or send an email to
waconewstouse@... ...

Thank you!


[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

I'm new to Texas, my 7 year old has autism. I need any resources I can get,
groups activities for him, we live in Springtown, tx in parker county. Also was
going to put him in hatfield elementary in justin, tx. Is that a good school??
Thank u

The Brent Woodall Foundation's 2012 Summer Social Skills & Language
Camps

This year the BWF will be offering six camps, lasting one week each
(Monday –Thursday). Each camp is for a different age range for
children as young as 2 yrs old and up to 12 yrs old so please contact
Tracy Pierce Bender for more information on which camp will be most
appropriate for your child. Visit www.woodallkids.org
<http://www.woodallkids.org/>  for more information!

     * Camp 1: Having Fun & Coping Better This Summer, Ages 5-8, June
11-16, 1:00-4:00pm, $250
     * Camp 2: Social Skills Survivor Camp, Ages 8-12, June 18-21,
4:00-6:00 pm, $175
     * Camp 3: All About Me! Language Skills Camp, Ages 3-5, June 24-28,
1:00-3:00pm, $175
     * Camp 4: Beach Time Social Skills Camp, Ages 2-4, July 9-12,
9:00-12:00am, $250
     * Camp 5: Using Math to Enhance Your Social Skills, Ages 7-10, July
16-19, 4:00-6:00pm, $175
     * Camp 6: Summer Vacation! Social Skills for School, Aug 3-6, July
23-26, 9:00-12:00am, $250



Brent Woodall Foundation for Exceptional Children

3021 Gateway Dr, Suite 295
Irving, TX 75063



[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

I am looking for a support group in or near Mansfield, Texas. Does anyone know
of any?

this may be helpful?

Autism Spectrum Association of Parents (ASAP); 817 473 0221; Theresa Ely
jasonandtheresaely@...

http://www.featnt.org/home.php .. FEAT -- Families for Effective Autism
Treatment ... in grapevine

http://www.arcnetc.org/ ... Arc of Northeast Tarrant County .. Haltom City



--- In pddautismwacosupportgrp@yahoogroups.com, "lcmille937@..."
<lcmille937@...> wrote:
>
> I am looking for a support group in or near Mansfield, Texas. Does anyone know
of any?
>

JOIN US FOR A FREE PARENT WORKSHOP!

Hosted by the

Brent Woodall Foundation

for Exceptional Children



Maximizing Every Moment: ABA Throughout the Day

Presented By:

Tracy Pierce Bender, PhD-ABD, BCBA

& Bethany Covington



Friday, April 20th, 2012

6:00-7:30pm

Texas Rangers Education Center

100 Texas Ranger Trail

Waco, TX 76706



Please visit our website www.woodallkids.org
<http://www.woodallkids.org/>  for more information

RSVP to outreach@...

This workshop is for adults only; childcare is NOT provided.



[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

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<h1>
App from creator of DT Trainer / Activity Trainer</h1>

<p>This is Karl Smith, father of a son with autism, creator of the DT Trainer
and Activity Trainer, and this is one of my few blasts informing the autism
community on our continued progress.</p>

<p>Thanks for your support of the DT Trainer and Activity Trainer, we are now in
over 1100 school districts, 300 private schools and service providers, and
thousands of homes.  The DT Trainer now has over 250 content programs and the
Activity Trainer has about 300 activities.  We are impacting approaching 100,000
individuals with autism and other learning disabilities.  I will continue to
expand the tools to cover more topics and a wider developmental range (currently
the developmental range is 2-9 years old).</p>

<p>We are starting on apps for iPads and Android tablets.  We have just released
our first app: Activity App Shoe Tying 1.  It is now available on iPads and can
be found by searching for “activity app shoe tying” in the Apple App Store. 
(It is not yet designed for iPhone even though it is on the store there

hopefully it will be taken down soon).  We will release it for the android
soon.</p>

<p>The app combines video modeling with task analysis to teach even lower
functioning special needs children and students or younger typical children. 
Individual steps can be taught and then the sequencing.  The app also plays the
full video to accommodate a wide range of children.  There is a video to image
transition to support off system cuing and schedules, and image to text to help
work on reading comprehension.  The instructional / self-talk language
associated with each step is also provided to help the learner build a
linguistic model.</p>

<p>My son with autism had not learned to tie his shoes at almost 13 years old
and I had spent hundreds of hours over about 4 years trying to teach him.  With
the Activity Trainer, shoe tying activity, I was able to teach him in about 2
hours over a couple of week period.  The first step crossing the laces took him
about 3 trials to become independent.  The second step took about 8 trials.  Now
I had a different learner
 one that knew he could succeed.  Step by step and
then learning the sequence, he learned table top just 5 minutes here and there
for about an hour over the first week.  The second week we worked on
transitioning him to tying his shoes on his feet and initiating without being
told.  He kept waiting for me to tell him to tie his shoes, but I was fading my
support.  Finally at the end of the second week we were going biking (something
he loves to do with me) and he was sitting by the door with his shoes on and
tied!</p>

<p>Some people just put our kids in Velcro shoes if the child does not learn the
skill after significant effort.  Our app has the potential of changing the level
of effort to teach the skill and with a minimal effort we can determine if the
student is responding to the approach.</p>

<p>Trying to teach the student with our app is worth trying because of the
potential benefits. I would argue that shoe tying is a moderately difficult and
complex fine motor skill and a pivotal skill that demonstrates the individual
has the cognitive ability to learn many daily living and vocational skills
provided better teaching methods.  Shoe tying will be maintained by daily
practice without contriving situations to maintain the skill.  I would try the
shoe tying app on any individual that is in Velcro shoes because he did not
learn to tie his shoes.  Learning shoe and knot tying leads to increased
independence through life.</p>

<p>The app is like a mini structured teaching course using video modeling that
can be used by parents or teachers.  The shoe tying app should take the
frustration out of learning for the child and teaching parent or teacher.  iPad
and Android tablets will make the teaching environment readily available and
convenient.</p>

<p>We are looking forward to bringing a range of inexpensive individual activity
apps, collections of activities, the full Activity Trainer “Player” app, and
the DT Trainer “Player” app.  The shoe tying app will help fund the
continued expansion of our tools to tablets.  Please help spread the word about
this new valuable app for individuals with autism, other learning challenges,
and young children.  </p>

<p>You can find out more about the app at our new web site: <a
href="http://aesapps.com">aesapps.com</a>.
To find the app in the Apple App Store search for “activity app shoe
tying”.</p>

<p>To find out more about the DT Trainer & Activity Trainer visit: <a
href="http://dttrainer.com">dttrainer.com</a>.</p>

<p>Since we have never found investors that believe in our mission to bring
research to practice and ***make it affordable***, we have made the progress we
have by the support of our customers.  We believe that we should be a successful
company by helping lots of individuals with autism and other learning
disabilities and not just the wealthier ones.  Your support of our work helps us
expand not only what we do, but the number of individuals we help.</p>

<p>By the way... my son taught himself a basketball trick.  Try this yourself! 
He learned to tie his shoes before he learned to do this!  Shoe tying improved
his fine motor skills.
www.youtube.com/watch?v=XK0ea6QrPvo&context=C45633d5ADvjVQa1PpcFP-DM-Noj3MQcwU8-\
wiOB-Awzqg-OE5eg0=
</p>

<p>-Karl Smith</p>


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App from creator of DT Trainer / Activity Trainer

This is Karl Smith, father of a son with autism, creator of the DT Trainer and
Activity Trainer, and this is one of my few blasts informing the autism
community on our continued progress.

Thanks for your support of the DT Trainer and Activity Trainer, we are now in
over 1100 school districts, 300 private schools and service providers, and
thousands of homes.  The DT Trainer now has over 250 content programs and the
Activity Trainer has about 300 activities.  We are impacting approaching 100,000
individuals with autism and other learning disabilities.  I will continue to
expand the tools to cover more topics and a wider developmental range (currently
the developmental range is 2-9 years old).

We are starting on apps for iPads and Android tablets.  We have just released
our first app: Activity App Shoe Tying 1.  It is now available on iPads and can
be found by searching for “activity app shoe tying” in the Apple App Store. 
(It is not yet designed for iPhone even though it is on the store there

hopefully it will be taken down soon).  We will release it for the android soon.

The app combines video modeling with task analysis to teach even lower
functioning special needs children and students or younger typical children. 
Individual steps can be taught and then the sequencing.  The app also plays the
full video to accommodate a wide range of children.  There is a video to image
transition to support off system cuing and schedules, and image to text to help
work on reading comprehension.  The instructional / self-talk language
associated with each step is also provided to help the learner build a
linguistic model.

My son with autism had not learned to tie his shoes at almost 13 years old and I
had spent hundreds of hours over about 4 years trying to teach him.  With the
Activity Trainer, shoe tying activity, I was able to teach him in about 2 hours
over a couple of week period.  The first step crossing the laces took him about
3 trials to become independent.  The second step took about 8 trials.  Now I had
a different learner
 one that knew he could succeed.  Step by step and then
learning the sequence, he learned table top just 5 minutes here and there for
about an hour over the first week.  The second week we worked on transitioning
him to tying his shoes on his feet and initiating without being told.  He kept
waiting for me to tell him to tie his shoes, but I was fading my support. 
Finally at the end of the second week we were going biking (something he loves
to do with me) and he was sitting by the door with his shoes on and tied!

Some people just put our kids in Velcro shoes if the child does not learn the
skill after significant effort.  Our app has the potential of changing the level
of effort to teach the skill and with a minimal effort we can determine if the
student is responding to the approach.

Trying to teach the student with our app is worth trying because of the
potential benefits. I would argue that shoe tying is a moderately difficult and
complex fine motor skill and a pivotal skill that demonstrates the individual
has the cognitive ability to learn many daily living and vocational skills
provided better teaching methods.  Shoe tying will be maintained by daily
practice without contriving situations to maintain the skill.  I would try the
shoe tying app on any individual that is in Velcro shoes because he did not
learn to tie his shoes.  Learning shoe and knot tying leads to increased
independence through life.

The app is like a mini structured teaching course using video modeling that can
be used by parents or teachers.  The shoe tying app should take the frustration
out of learning for the child and teaching parent or teacher.  iPad and Android
tablets will make the teaching environment readily available and convenient.

We are looking forward to bringing a range of inexpensive individual activity
apps, collections of activities, the full Activity Trainer “Player” app, and
the DT Trainer “Player” app.  The shoe tying app will help fund the
continued expansion of our tools to tablets.  Please help spread the word about
this new valuable app for individuals with autism, other learning challenges,
and young children.

You can find out more about the app at our new web site: www.aesapps.com
<http://www.aesapps.com>.
To find the app in the Apple App Store search for “activity app shoe tying”.

To find out more about the DT Trainer & Activity Trainer visit:
www.dttrainer.com <http://www.dttrainer.com>.

Since we have never found investors that believe in our mission to bring
research to practice and ***make it affordable***, we have made the progress we
have by the support of our customers.  We believe that we should be a successful
company by helping lots of individuals with autism and other learning
disabilities and not just the wealthier ones.  Your support of our work helps us
expand not only what we do, but the number of individuals we help.

By the way
 my son taught himself a basketball trick.  Try this yourself!  He
learned to tie his shoes before he learned to do this!  Shoe tying improved his
fine motor skills.
www.youtube.com/watch?v=XK0ea6QrPvo&context=C45633d5ADvjVQa1PpcFP-DM-Noj3MQcwU8-\
wiOB-Awzqg-OE5eg0
<http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XK0ea6QrPvo&context=C45633d5ADvjVQa1PpcFP-DM-Noj\
3MQcwU8-wiOB-Awzqg-OE5eg0>=


-Karl Smith


[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

Come to Fuddruckers in Waco, 1411 N. Valley Mills Drive, anytime on Monday,
April 30th ...
Download and print the flyer (http://hotautismnetwork.org/files/HOTANFUDDS.jpg),
bring it in and FUDDRUCKERS will donate 15% of your purchase to Heart of Texas
Autism Network, helping to increase opportunities for families and individuals
living with autism in the Heart of Central Texas!