Autism in Arkansas

Congress changes intellectual disability wording

2010-10-03T20:02:00.001-07:00

By JIM ABRAMS (AP)

WASHINGTON — Disabilities advocates on Thursday applauded Congress for passing legislation that eliminates the term "mental retardation" from federal laws.

"Changing how we talk about people with disabilities is a critical step in promoting and protecting their basic civil and human rights," said Peter Berns, CEO of The Arc, an organization promoting the human rights of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

The measure, passed by the House by voice vote Wednesday night, changes the phrase "mentally retarded" to "an individual with an intellectual disability" in existing health, education and labor law.

Sen. Barbara Mikulski, D-Md., sponsor of the bill with Sen Mike Enzi, R-Wyo., said it would make language in federal law consistent with that used by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, as well as the health arm of the United Nations and the White House.

"This law is about families fighting for the respect and dignity of their loved ones," Mikulski said. "This change will have a positive effect on more than 6 million Americans."

"Rosa's Law," named after a Maryland girl with Down Syndrome, passed the Senate last month and now goes to President Barack Obama for his signature.

___

The bill is S. 2781

Online:

Congress: http://thomas.loc.gov

Walk Now for Autism Speaks

2010-10-03T19:52:00.000-07:00

I had a great time at the Autism Speaks 2010 Arkansas Autism Now Walk in Little Rock on Saturday, Oct. 2nd. I helped with the Advocacy table and participated in the walk. Preliminary estimates are 1500 participants and over $70,000 raised. Plan now to participate in next year's walk.

Pope Co. Parents of Special Needs Children

2010-10-03T19:49:00.000-07:00

Join for our October Meeting on Thursday October the 7th at 6:30 pm. We will be meeting at the Equestrian Zone for this month's meeting. They will be giving us a tour and short presentation. Hope to see you there!

New Healthcare Website

2010-10-03T19:46:00.000-07:00

There is a new website - www.healthcare.gov - that offers comparison shopping for over 4,400 insruance plans across the country. It also breaks all the information out (including the Obama Health Care Plan's provisions) by consumer bracket, including a disability category.

Collaborative Problem Solving Approach by Dr. Ross Greene | Lives in the Balance

2010-08-18T13:26:00.000-07:00

Collaborative Problem Solving Approach by Dr. Ross Greene | Lives in the Balance

ADD Survey

2010-08-09T17:59:00.001-07:00

The Administration on Developmental Disabilities (ADD) in the Department of Health and Human Services is seeking information about the needs of people with developmental disabilities. ADD funds projects of national significance (PNS) designed to foster systems change in meeting the needs of people with developmental disabilities and their families. ADD is asking people to complete a short on-line survey about the types of programs and projects that would be most helpful to people and their families. The survey can be completed on line until September 1, 2010 at:
http://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/add/survey/survey_coded_final.html.

DRC Public Input Link

2010-07-26T11:17:00.000-07:00

Reach for Your Possibilities! Let Us Help!
Help stop discrimination against people with disabilities!
2011 PROPOSED PRIORITIES AND GOALS

Disability Rights Center is seeking public input for its 2011 priorities and goals.

Just paste the path below into your web browser and complete the form.
http://www.arkdisabilityrights.org/2011publicinputform.html

Disability Rights Center
1100 N. University, Suite 201
Little Rock AR 72207
501.296.1775
800.482.1174

Arkansas Disability Policy Consortium Summit 2010

2010-07-25T16:09:00.000-07:00

Arkansas Disability Policy Consortium (ADPC) will host the
2010 Disability Policy Summit “Arkansans for Full Participation”
OCTOBER 20, 2010
at the Comfort Inn & Suites, Downtown Little Rock @ the Clinton Library, 707 Interstate 30, Room reservation contact 501-687-7700.
8:30 A.M. – 9:30 A.M. Registration
9:30 A.M. -11:45 A.M. Disability Networking
12 Noon- 12:30 P.M. Lunch
12:45 P.M.- 2:15 P.M. Candidates Panel
2:15 P.M.- 2:30 P.M. Wrap Up
More information contact Adpc2003@aol.com

ARC Survey

2010-07-25T15:36:00.000-07:00

The National Arc is conducting a FINDS survey

"Family and Individual Needs for Disability Supports"

http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/TheArcFinds2010

This will take a few minutes to complete but it gives your voice a chance to be heard.

Positively Autism Vol 5 Issue 3

2010-07-20T16:56:00.000-07:00

http://www.positivelyautism.com/volume5issue3/
is the link to the latest edition of the online, free magazine. This issue is devoted to Occupational Therapy.

Social Skills Group Starting in Conway

2010-07-19T16:58:00.001-07:00

Social Skills Groups
We are excited to announce that social skills groups are forming and will begin this September in Conway. The groups will include up to 8 children with 2 group leaders.

The social skills groups are open to children ages 4-12 who need instruction in the area of social skills. Deficits in this area are commonly found in children who have been diagnosed with autism spectrum disorders but a formal diagnosis is not required.

Group leaders will utilize research-based strategies and ABA methodology during instruction. Data will be collected during each session to monitor progress on the areas being programmed for.

An intake appointment with both the parent and child will be scheduled for August and will assist group leaders in developing social skill goals and group placement. Ongoing communication with parents will assist in allowing skills that are learned in group to be practiced outside of group times.

Group Leaders:

Jennifer Hennessey, Ed.D., is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst. She has over 10 years experience working with children on the autism spectrum in both home and public school settings.

Shelia Smith, Ph.D., Licensed Psychologist, has over 6 years experience specializing in early childhood and working with children on the autism spectrum. She is currently completing coursework and receiving supervision required for the BCBA exam.

For more information, please contact Jennifer at 501-940-4435 jhennessey@conwaycorp.net or Shelia at 501-730-3578 dr.sheliasmith@gmail.com

FYAN Conference and Dr. Ross Greene

2010-05-30T21:20:00.000-07:00

I just returned from the first annual FYAN (Family Youth Assistance Network) conference. It was an informative event and one I would recommend. One highlight of the meeting was the presentation on Friday by Dr. Ross Greene on Collaborative Problem Solving. Dr. Greene is the author of "The Explosive Child" and "Lost at School." His technique for dealing with children with challenging behaviors is first rate. If you are interested, he is coming back to Arkansas in June for the ARMEA conference. Here's the link. http://www.arkansasmentalhealthineducation.org/events.html

Mike's Morning Mo-Joe

2010-05-06T09:05:00.000-07:00

Mike's Morning Mo-Joe

Online Arkansas Autism Resources

2010-04-26T19:12:00.000-07:00

I was just asked to put together a listing of parent support groups for Autism in Arkansas. Here's what I have come up with so far (in no particular order). Please post comments if you have some to add to the list!

http://www.aaroc.org/
http://www.communityconnectionsar.org/
http://www.arkansasautism.org/
http://www.arfeatok.org/
http://nwaautismsupport.com/Home_Page.php
http://www.aanea.org/
http://conwayasperger.org/
http://arkansasnaa.org/
http://www.parentsofspecialkidssearcy.org/
http://achildsvoiceautismfoundation.org/
http://www.calmmar.org/
http://www.autismspeaks.org/community/fsdb/category.php?sid=5&cid=108
http://www.eyecontactarkansas.org/
http://health.groups.yahoo.com/group/ArkansasAutismNetwork/
http://health.groups.yahoo.com/group/ParentsofchildrenwithAspergers/

HEAR to host CAM lecture

2010-04-26T19:10:00.001-07:00

Complementary & Alternative Medicine (CAM) Lecture Series

H.E.A.R. (Helping Educate about Autism Recovery) presents "Integrative & Holistic Care of Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders" by Nancy O'Hara.

Saturday, May 22, 2010
10am to 3pm

Wilson Education Building
UAMS
1st Floor Lecture Hall
Hooper and Markham Streets
Little Rock, Arkansas

Registration fee is $6.00 (box lunch provided) and registration deadline is Friday, May 14, 2010. To register call Dianna Varady at (501) 526-6084 or email divarady@yahoo.com

AR Autism Speaks Kick Off Event May 1st!

2010-04-26T19:07:00.000-07:00

I will be attending the Kick Off Event for the Autism Speaks Walk. It is this Saturday at 11 am at the Clinton Library.

2010 Arkansas Walk Now for Autism Speaks Kick Off Event
Saturday, May 1st
11:00 am - 1:00 pm
Clinton Presidential Center
For more information please email arkansas@autismspeaks.org

2010 Arkansas Walk Now for Autism Speaks
Clinton Presidential Center
1200 President Clinton Drive
Little Rock, Arkansas 72201
Saturday, October 2, 2010
Registration: 8:30 am
Walk Starts: 10:00 am
REGISTER TODAY: www.walknowforautismspeaks.org

Walked in the AAROC 5 K Saturday

2010-04-26T18:33:00.000-07:00

I did it in the rain too! The 3rd annual All Out For Autism 5K was Saturday morning. Although it was wet, it was a great event. The race benefits AAROC - a great resource for anyone impacted by Autism in Arkansas. http://www.aaroc.org/ is the website.

Autism Waiver Meeting in Conway

2010-02-02T22:10:00.000-08:00

Made it to the Autism Waiver Meeting in Conway. Very informative -State will be providing ABA style services via a medicaid waiver with the random selection of 100 kids from the list that apply. Then they will start a waiting list. Age range of those eligible is not set in stone but looking like birth through 10 being the age to apply. Waiver only lasts 3 years. Projecting services being in the field by January 2011 with the application process starting later this year. ABA is a fabulous program if is it a good fit for your family. Lots of research indicates major results from the intervention and programming for the child. I am excited to see this coming to our state and hopefully funding will only increase!

Title V meeting in Clarksville

2010-02-02T22:07:00.000-08:00

OK - found the title V meeting in Clarksville last Thursday amidst the turning weather. It was a good session, lead by David Deere from Partners. All the major disability organizations in the state were listening. We had a good session where we put things on the board that we needed to improve the lives of our children. Don't know were the money or services would be coming from to fund some of these but they are out there.

Book Scholarship

2010-01-23T21:28:00.001-08:00

From another list I belong to:

Book Scholarship for High School or College Students with Autism or Asperger's

http://aheadd.org/scholarship.html

UAMS/ACH Autism Conference April 16-17, 2010

2010-01-17T21:15:00.000-08:00

Save the Date: Team Up: Building Partnerships for Children with Autism in Arkansas

Jointly sponsored by UAMS with Arkansas Children's Hospital

April 16-17, 2010 Arkansas Children's Hospital

Questions or Register: Jackie Jagers 501-364-1248

Will post a weblink as soon as available. BTW, it is $20 for parents!

Autism Resource Center of Arkansas support group meeting Jan. 30th

2010-01-17T20:42:00.000-08:00

The ARCAR is hosting their first support group meeting of the year! Come to New Life Church of Conway on Saturday, January 30th, 2009 from 9:00-11:00 a.m.

Their speaker will be Lynne Holloway, a Peds Plus OT and certified RDI consultant. She will teach us about Relationship Development Intervention and give us some great techniques to use at home in our daily lives. There will also be a poll to find out what you'd like to learn from these meetings this year. (You can even request a speaker!)

As always, refreshments will be served and there will be lots of time for discussion. Childcare is provided with an RSVP. Contact Shayna at shayna_fendley@pedsplustherapy.com if you'd like to RSVP or have any questions.

All About IEPs in Little Rock April 1st

2010-01-17T20:33:00.000-08:00

http://peterwrightlr.eventbrite.com/ is the link to the Little Rock conference. It will be Thursday, April 01, 2010 from 9:00 AM - 3:30 PM (CT) at the William J. Clinton Presidential Center.

From the website:
CONFERENCE INFORMATION

Peter Wright will guide parents and professionals on how to write good IEPs for the disabled child during this all-day conference. He will cover IEP regulations, recent changes in the federal law, and the drafting of SMART IEPs.

The conference features Peter Wright's newest book, the 2010 All About IEPs. Written in a question-and-answer format, this book answers the many questions a parent or educator may have about special education law and children's rights.

All About IEPs

Peter Wright is a leading scholar on special education law and the author of the classic Wrightslaw series on disability rights. His website www.wrightslaw.com is a great resource for families and educators seeking help with special education law.

Year-end IEP meetings are coming up soon, and every parent and educator needs to be prepared!

BOOKS AND CD-ROMs to ALL ATTENDEES

All conference attendees receive:
* From Emotions to Advocacy by Peter Wright
* All About IEPs by Peter Wright, new for 2010!
* CD-ROM on “Legal Requirements of IEPs”
* CD-ROM on “Understanding Your Child’s Test Scores”
a $62.80 value, FREE.

REGISTRATION
* Early registration starts now until March 10th. You pay only $35.00 for the all-day conference, books and CD-ROMs.
* Standard registration costs $50 until March 29th, two days before the conference.
* Late registration is $70.
* CEU and CLE credit is also available with a $80 registration. This registration will be available shortly.

Payment is due at the time of registration, but those with tickets may designate subsitutes.

Title V meetings need your voice!

2010-01-11T21:59:00.000-08:00

The Title V Children’s Services Program/DDS
And the Developmental Disabilities Network
(Arkansas Governor’s Developmental Disabilities Council,
Disability Rights Center,
and Partners for Inclusive Communities)

Announce a Series of Public Forums on

“Needs of Children with Special Health Care Needs and Individuals with Disabilities and their Families”

This series is to provide four agencies information about services and needs of children and youth with special health care needs and adults with disabilities. The things learned in these meetings will become a part of the state plan for Title V Children’s Services and planning for future activities for the agencies that are members of the Developmental Disabilities Network (Developmental Disabilities Council, Disability Rights Center, and Partners for Inclusive Communities).

The schedule is listed below. Please be aware that if local schools are closed due to hazardous road conditions/inclement weather, then the meeting for that date/location will be cancelled

City
Date
Time
Location

Batesville
Tuesday
January 12th
1pm-3pm & 6pm-8pm
Community Bank
1325 Harrison Street

Jonesboro
Thursday
January 14th
1pm-3pm & 6pm-8pm
Valley View Church of Christ
4500 Southwest Drive

Mena
Tuesday
January 19th
1pm-3pm & 6pm-8pm
Rich Mountain Community College
1100 College Avenue

Magnolia
Thursday
January 21st
1pm-3pm & 6pm-8pm
Compassion’s Foundation
1823 East North Street

Clarksville
Thursday
January 28th
1pm-3pm & 6pm-8pm
Forrester Davis DD Center
1000 West Buchanan Street

Stuttgart
Tuesday
February 2nd
1pm-3pm & 6pm-8pm
Phillips Community College
2807 Highway 165 South

Hope
Thursday
February 4th
1pm-3pm & 6pm-8pm
BancorpSouth Community Room
200 South Elm Street

For more information or to request accommodations to participate in this meeting, please call Mary Jo Lewno at 1-800-342-2923 (V/TTY), 501-682-9900 (Voice), or 501-682-9902 (TTY), or e-mail LewnoMaryJo@uams.edu. No pre-registration required.

11 year old with Autism in AR charged with felony

2010-01-10T18:48:00.000-08:00

Visit http://zakhs.blogspot.com/ and http://thezakhappeal.com/home/ to get the whole story.

Recap:
Zakh who is 11, has autism, and has had some pretty significant challenges in his short life - including being institutionalized and the loss of his younger sister - has been charged with felony assault for his actions while resisting being physically restrained by the staff at Beard Elementary in Ft. Smith. It is this school that has apparently denied him FAPE, an IEP, and PBS. His grandmother is trying to raise the $5,000 retainer needed for an attorney to help the family. Please put your thoughts, prayers, and support behind this young man.

I think about Zakh and compare it to our situation. My son is 8, has a full time aide - something Zakh was denied - and the support of both a wonderful school administration and teachers - also denied to Zakh. But we live in Pottsville - not Fort Smith - Arkansas. It is a tragedy that the schools are so different but the law and regulations are the same. Wen has had some meltdowns at school this year, as has Zakh, but our teachers and school leadership understand that this is his disability coming through not "bad behavior." But things are better and we continue to work on how to help Wen learn these coping skills he so desperately needs.

GFCF EasyBake Oven Products

2010-01-08T20:04:00.000-08:00

OK - we are several weeks into our GFCF adventure. Wen is taking and eating his lunch at school and we have had a good week back after Christmas Break. I belong to several lists trying to learn as much as I can about Autism. Every once in a while, I read something really unusual. This is one of those tips. If you are GFCF and are looking for kids food, here's a link for you. http://www.foodtek.com/GF.html has mixes you can use in your child's EasyBake Oven that are GFCF. I haven't tried them yet, but can't wait to see how they turn out.

Petition to encourage state action on Autism Legislation

2010-01-03T01:09:00.000-08:00

Dayna Miller is circulating a petition to encourage the Arkansas Legislature to
mandate insurance coverage for autism spectrum disorders and
appropriate therapy. Please conact Dayna directly for a PDF copy of the petition. Her email address is dayna.abaslp@yahoo.com.

Please read, sign and forward. Also, please have
family, friends, coworkers, church members and others sign this
petition. Arkansas came close to passing this legislation in 2009 and
I believe with your help it can become a reality now.

Please print, forward and share with as many people as possible.
Individuals with autism need you to be their advocate. Upon
completion, please mail directly to me:
Dayna Miller
5901 Kersey Lane
Jonesboro, Ar. 72404

Please email me directly with any questions: dayna.abaslp@yahoo.com

Thank you in advance for your help.

Dayna Miller
dayna.abaslp@yahoo.com

Autism Waiver Community Meetings

2010-01-02T23:59:00.000-08:00

Autism Waiver Community Meetings

Coming To Your Area

The new Upcoming waiver program to provide intensive early intervention for children with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) is being developed. A series of community meetings are being held for parents/family members and providers. See below for the schedule of dates, locations and descriptions of the sessions. Please share this information with all those who have an interest in this important program. For more information call Barbara or Mary Jo at Partners for Inclusive Communities at 1-800-342-2923 or Karan at 501-551-1754.

Schedule

Date
City
Location

1/5/2010 -Tuesday
Fayetteville
Fayetteville Public Library (Walker Room); 401 West Mountain St., Fayetteville 72701

1/6/2010 -Wednesday
Ft. Smith
St. Edward’s Mercy Medical Center (Education – Sicard Room); 7301 Rogers Ave., Ft. Smith 72903

1/7/2010 -Thursday
Hot Springs
First Nazarene Church; 3804 Central Ave., Hot Springs 71913

1/19/2010 -Tuesday
Mountain Home
McMullin Lecture Hall/Dryer Lobby, ASU 1600 S College St., Mountain Home 72653

1/20/2010 -Wednesday
Marshall
PettiJean Electric Cooperative – Hwy 65N, Marshall 72650

1/21/2010 -Thursday
North Little Rock
Pulaski Technical College (Grand Hall B); 3000 W. Scenic Dr., North Little Rock 72118

1/26/2010 -Tuesday
Pine Bluff
Jenkins Memorial Center Cafeteria; 2410 Rike Ave., Pine Bluff 71603

1/28/2010 -Thursday
El Dorado
Ellis Conference Center, AHEC South AR, 460 W Oak, El Dorado 71730

2/2/2010 -Tuesday
Conway
Conway New Life Church; 633 South Country Club Rd, Conway 72034

2/3/2010 -Wednesday
Helena
Great Rivers Educational Service Cooperative; 100 Campus Dr., Helena/West Helena 72342

2/4/2010 -Thursday
Dumas
Courtroom – 2nd floor of Dumas Municipal Complex; 149 East Waterman, Dumas 71639

2/9/2010 -Tuesday
Nashville
Howard County Children’s Center; 1577 Hwy 371 W, Nashville 71852

2/10/2010 -Wednesday
Prescott
Collum & Carney Clinic (Community Room); 1440 W 1st N, Prescott 71857

2/11/2010 -Thursday
Jonesboro
Valley View Church of Christ; 4500 Southwest Dr., Jonesboro 72401

Description of Sessions:

3:30-5:00 PM Session- Provider Session

This session is designed for community-based providers of developmental disabilities services and individual therapists/practitioners who have expertise and experience in developing/implementing intensive intervention programs for children with ASD

6:00- 7:30 PM Session- Parent/Family Member Session

This session is designed for all parents/family members who have sons and daughters with ASD, of all ages. In addition to the discussion of the new waiver program, parents will be able to share their needs and participate in prioritizing the needs for their region. This information will be shared with the Legislative Task Force on Autism, created by SB 938 of 2009. If parents have a personal story they would like to share, please bring it to the meeting in writing so it can be shared in its entirety with the Task Force.

Tentative Meeting Agenda:

·Welcome

·Autism Waiver Program Presentation- an informational presentation will be made explaining the status and process for development of the new waiver; the differences between the upcoming program and the existing developmental disabilities waiver; and a tentative schedule for implementation of the program

·Identification of Needs Process- participants will be engaged in a process for identifying the needs of families/providers in their area related to services for individuals with ASDs. The group will then prioritize the needs for their region. This information will be shared with the Legislative Task Force.

Family members and providers are encouraged to invite their local legislators to attend the sessions so they may hear firsthand the needs of their constituents.

Autism Task Force Documents

2010-01-02T23:31:00.000-08:00

To find out what the Arkansas Legisative Task Force has been doing, you need to go to the website. It is a bit tricky to find. First, go to www.arkleg.state.ar.us Then go to the right hand side and look under Useful Links - Research - Research Publications. This will take you to the Research Service Division Page on which there is a link to Legislative Task Forces. Click on that link. This takes you to the Bureau's Internet Research Publications Page where there is a link for the Legislative Task Force on Autism. And finally you are at the files!

Surviving Christmas

2010-01-02T23:27:00.000-08:00

Well, we made it through another Christmas holiday with relatively few major tramas. I am grateful considering the major change in schedule and routine that two week break from school and therapy can mean to a child with Autism. Not to mention that we are in the middle of going GFCF. That in and of itself is a challenge. His food list has narrowed - if that were possible - from pre diet and he wants everything to taste the same. It is hard to explain to an 8 year old - but we still try daily. I'll be posting a couple of links and messages about upcoming events in the state and information. Stay tuned and I hope everyone survived the holidays!

Breakfast Cookies

2009-12-13T03:31:00.000-08:00

OK - I made the GFCF Breakfast Cookies out of Special Diets for Special Kids. They are not bad. Had to order several ingredients mail order - but now I am stocked up. My NT daughter loved them!

Conway, AR Asperger Support Group

2009-12-06T20:46:00.000-08:00

The Conway Asperger support group has a new website that Shayna wanted to share with you. Check back for blog updates, community event announcements, resources and more! The information featured on the site is not just for those who live in Conway- it can help anyone living with Asperger’s Syndrome.

www.conwayasperger.org

From:

Shayna Fendley, Director

Autism Resource Center of AR

www.communityconnectionsar.org

32 Rahling Circle

Little Rock, AR 72212

(F)501.821.6116

DAN! Doctor coming to Little Rock

2009-12-04T19:58:00.000-08:00

January 16, 2010 9:00 AM

Easter Seals of Arkansas
3920 Woodland Heights Road
Little Rock , AR 72212
501-227-3600

Dr. Callghan from Great Plains Laboratories will be presenting his seminar entitled "There Is Hope for Autism." It will cover how biochemistry, immune system issues and toxins affect our kids, and steps we can take to optimize their health. Cost of attending this seminar is $25 (if parents attend together they only have to pay once). We need a minimum of 25 paid registrants to cover Dr. Callaghan's travel fees and expenses. Dr. Callaghan will be returning sometime in February to conduct an outreach DAN (Defeat Autism Now) clinic for families that are interested. Details will be available at the seminar. Some of us spend a lot of money traveling out-of-state to consult with DAN physicians, so this outreach clinic that will be held right here in town is really a great opportunity for families. Contact the outreach clinic directly to register at (859) 261-4503.

Happenings in the Cochran Household

2009-12-04T19:48:00.000-08:00

We are starting the road to GFCF in the Cochran Household. We are phasing out casein and gluten as we speak. I will be cooking like a mad woman this weekend - trying GF buns, meatballs, etc. My first attempt at GFCF bread came out reasonably well. Kroger has several flours on sale today so I stocked up. The Applegate GFCF Nitrate Free hot dogs can be had from the Vitamin Shoppe here in Russellville. And I found all the needed ingredients for cashew cheese at the Country Cupboard Natural Foods. I did have to order my bun pad from Amazon and I'm about to stock my pantry ordering from Bob's Red Mill. Will update on our progress soon!

DHS 2009 Autism Grants

2009-08-28T20:19:00.001-07:00

Go to http://eyecontactarkansas.squarespace.com/dhs-2009-autism-grants/ for detailed information about grants of up to $5000 currently available.

One Day Autism Conference

2009-08-28T20:09:00.000-07:00

There is an Autism conference at Geyer Springs First Baptist Church (Little Rock) on Saturday, September 19
from 9:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. There is no fee for this conference and lunch will be provided. Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions. This conference is sponsored by the Arkansas Baptist State Convention and features Karan Burnette from Arkansas Children's Hospital.

Bekka Middleton
Director - Special G.I.F.T.S Ministry
Geyer Springs First Baptist Church
(501) 351-2232

ARMEA Autism Training in Harrison in October

2009-07-29T09:28:00.000-07:00

Arkansas Mental Health in Education Association (ARMEA)
Presents:

Practical Strategies for Working with Students with Asperger’s
Syndrome and High-Functioning Autism (Grades K-12)
Speaker: Kathy Morris

Participants can expect to learn the following information from the training:

Practical strategies to promote positive social and emotional
behaviors, learning styles and triggers in the environment, and
develop/encourage empathy in professionals as parents/families go
through denial and the grieving process when a child is diagnosed with
Autism or Asperger’s Syndrome.

Schedule for October 9th, 2009
8-8:30 am Registration

8:30 am Kathy Morris
10-10:15am Break
10:15-11:45am Kathy Morris
11:45-1pm Lunch (on your own)
1:00-2:30pm Kathy Morris
2:30-2:45pm Break (cookies)
2:45-4:15pm Kathy Morris

Conference Location: The Durand Center at North AR College in Harrison, AR.

Conference Fees: $125.00 per professional
$30.00 for students/family members

Six (6) hours of CEU hours are available for the conference. The
conference fee includes one annual ARMEA Membership at no extra
charge. Please make conference payment out to ARMEA. Mail this
registration form and payment to:
ARMEA
ATTN: Tony Boaz
620 West Third, Suite 303
Little Rock, AR 72201

Name: ______________________________________

Position:__________________________________

School District or Agency Name: ____________________________________________

Email Address: __________________________________________________

Speaker Information:
For more information on the speaker, Kathy Morris, feel free to go to
the following website: www.igivuwings.com

Travel information:
Harrison is on Hwy 65 in Northern Arkansas. We are 30 minutes south
of Branson, MO.
The Durand Conference Center at North Arkansas College is located at
303 Main Street in Harrison, Arkansas.

For those that plan on staying overnight, here is a list of convenient hotels:
The Hotel Seville www.hotelseville.com is a historic hotel recently
renovated and restored, which is right across the street from The
Durand Conference Center.
Holiday Inn Express 870-741-3636, www.harrisonexpress.com
Hampton Inn 870-365-0505 http://hamptoninn1.hilton.com
Comfort Inn 870-741-7676 www.harrisoncomfortinn.com

ARMEA Information:

Arkansas Mental Health in Education Association (ARMEA) is a nonprofit
organization with the following mission statement:
To promote comprehensive SBMH programs throughout Arkansas
To ensure quality, accountability and professionalism
To foster partnerships among educators, mental health professionals
and the community &
To enhance the wellbeing of all Arkansas students

Visit our website for more information
http://www.arkansasmentalhealthineducation.org .

Postively Autism Newsletter

2009-07-28T18:41:00.001-07:00

Positively Autism
Alternatives to Punishment and Restraint
Volume 4, Issue 4 ~ July/August, 2009

Thank you to our issue sponsor, Autism Data Systems! Please visit the
website at www.autismdatasystems.com.

This issue contains...

"One Really Can Make a Difference" - An Interview with Michael and
Lisa Carey of The Jonathan Carey Foundation

"Alternatives to using Physical Restraint in Public Schools" by Emily
Cain, M.S.Ed & Niki Thurkow, Ph.D, BCBA-D of Positive Behavioral
Connections

Restraint Research

Positive Autism News

A Brief Review of Behavior Analytic Methodology and Research on
Restraint by Lorien Quirk, M.Ed., BCBA

Restraint Links

New Resources on Positively Autism

Thank You/Future Issue Contents

To read this issue please visit http://www.positivelyautism.com/volume4issue4/

Please remember to visit the main page of Positively Autism at
www.positivelyautism.com/ for links to our how-to articles, videos,
issue archive, and advertising information.

Don't forget to forward this newsletter to teachers, relatives, online
support groups, and friends! Thank you for your support.

Have a wonderful week,

Nicole Caldwell, M.Ed.
Editor, Positively Autism

Autism-Awareness Family Fun Day at Playtime Pizza

2009-07-28T18:38:00.000-07:00

What: Come & enjoy an Autism-Awareness Family Fun Day at Playtime
Pizza. You are not alone! Meet & socialize with other families in the
area who are also dealing with the stress of autism. In addition to a
100ft unlimited buffet (included in the price of admission), Playtime
Pizza has plenty of exciting games & attractions (go karts, bumper
cars, mini-golf, laser tag, bowling, a climbing wall, arcade games,
etc.) for kids of all ages. Admission for adults (12yrs+) is $8.99.
Children ages 4-11 are $6.99 and children under 4 are free. We have a
limited number of $3 child admission tickets available.
Please call and let us know how many you'll need. Hope to see you there!

When: Sunday, August 9, 2009 (1-5pm)

Where: Playtime Pizza
600 Colonel Glenn Plaza Loop
Little Rock, AR 72210
(501) 227-7529
(behind The Rave theater)

For more information about this event and to purchase your discounted
child admission tickets, (actually good until 12/31/09) please contact
Cindy Fong at fongfam@charter.net or (501)952-6508

Another Arkansas Autism Blog

2009-07-03T07:36:00.001-07:00

Please visit Marjorie Greenberg's new public site on autism in Arkansas, http://www.eyecontactarkansas.org/ The site will focus on state autism issues and news. If you have any comments, criticisms, or submissions she would love to hear from you.

AR Chapter, National Autism Association Meeting Jul. 12

2009-07-03T07:28:00.000-07:00

NAA Arkansas Chapter - Speaker Meeting
"Advocacy and IEP's:
Creating a Program for Learning & Growing"

When: Sunday, July 12, 2009 from 2-4pm

Where: Main Library (East Room, 1st Floor)
100 Rock Street, Little Rock, AR 72201
(501) 918-3000
Directions: http://www.cals.lib.ar.us/locations/main_map.html
*Parking at the library is 50 cents/hr with a validated parking receipt. Alternatively, you can park under the overpass for free if you don't mind walking a few blocks to get to the library.

Meeting Agenda:

•Chapter Business: We will briefly discuss our recent and upcoming Arkansas NAA events and opportunities for involvement. Please bring and share any ideas you have for future speakers, events and meetings.

•Speaker: Rebecca Riggs, a parent of two children with special needs, including an adult daughter on the autism spectrum, will present for us some strategies on being a strong advocate for your child's needs. She will share ideas for working constructively with schools, teachers and therapists, and provide suggestions for developing an effective Individualized Education Plan (IEP). Rebecca is a longtime advocate for individuals and families with special needs in Arkansas. She has accompanied many parents to IEP meetings over the years, volunteering her time and providing guidance, mentoring and support. We are looking forward to learning from her wisdom and experience!

•Social: Time for socializing and support will be available after the speaker. Refreshments and door prizes will be provided. Childcare not provided, but children are welcome to attend meeting with parents.

For more information about the meeting, please contact our current Arkansas NAA president, Cindy Fong, fongfam@charter.net, 803-0166 (home) or 952-6508 (cell)

Meeting in Russellville

2009-07-03T07:12:00.001-07:00

“A Dialog about Safety and Children with Disabilities”

July 28th

Arkansas River Valley Arts Center
1001 E B Street, Russellville AR 72801
At 5:30 p.m.

Sponsored by:
Children’s Medical Services
Partners for Inclusive Communities
Ozark Rape Crisis
The Arkansas River Valley Arts Center

Overview and Purpose
The purpose of this meeting is to dialog with parents of children with
disabilities, and interested others about safety. This will include
information on healthy relationships and boundaries. Please join us
for this valuable cross-training opportunity.

Facilitated by:
Roberta Sick, Safety and Sexual Violence Prevention Project Director,
Partners for Inclusive Communities, NLR, AR

Registration: There is no charge for this workshop.

Question’s Please contact
Becky Taylor, CMS Pope County Representative
Phone - 479 622 1367
Email- taylorsjubilee@hotmail.com

ANTS Training in Fort Smith in July - Free

2009-06-30T10:44:00.001-07:00

ADVOCATES NEEEDED TODAY INC (ANTS)

proudly presents Peter Leidy whose musical talent is known nationwide. Peter is from Wisconsin and is on the most powerful advocates for individuals with disabilities and their families that Arkansas has seen!

Doing Our Best Work: 10 Ingredients of Quality Support & Creating Quality Support through Individual and Family Driven Supports and Services

Featuring: Peter Leidy, Syed Ali, PhD. & Shawn Ali Erik Riggs & Rebecca Riggs, Christian Smith and Debra Smith, Vickie Oxford, Jessica Ladd & Sue Beckford, as well as other advocates and family members.

TOPICS FOR THE DAY

-Believing in positive possibilities and supporting community membership

-Listening, working as a team, embracing curiosity

-Language, attitudes and supporting people through relationships with them

-Our roles as allies and ethical dilemmas

-Remembering why we do this work

-Personal stories from individuals, their families and their support staff

CEU’S ARE AVAILABLE FOR THIS TRAINING

Need to Know

Friday, July 24, 2009

Registration & Snacks 3:30pm

Training Begins 4:00pm

Training Ends 8:00pm

Location

Elvin & Sally Frick

Community Center:

5812 Remington Circle

Ft. Smith, AR 72903

REGISTRATION DEADLINE -JULY 15, 2009

RSVP SOON AS SEATING IS LIMITED

Rebecca Riggs 501-960-0333

THIS TRAINING HAS BEEN FUNDED BY THE AR GOV’S DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES COUNCIL AND IS PROVIDED FREE OF CHARGE

Brain Gym 101 in Clinton, AR - July 15-17

2009-06-30T10:32:00.001-07:00

Brain Gym 101

*Research proven to improve test scores and behavior

July 15, 16, 17 2009

Topic: Brain Gym ® 101 Time: 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Location: First Service Community Room, 486 Hwy 65 N,
Clinton, Arkansas 72031

Fee: $300 if received by 7/1/09 / $350 late registration

Reviewers Only Fee: ½ price early or late registration fee

Instructors: Your licensed Brain Gym instructors, Debbie Smith and Brenda Wood, are educators at Shirley (AR) Elementary School.

Special Notes: Dress is casual and comfortable. We will experience all 26 Brain Gym ® activities. Bring a pillow, exercise mat or beach towel for floor activities and bring your favorite sports drink container or bottled water.

To register: Send Registration and Tuition or Purchase Order to Debbie Smith, 244 Douglas Lane, Clinton, AR
72031; Home: 501-745-4529 Cell: 501-592-1271
Butterflydreams53@hotmail.com

Attended Autism Resource Meeting Saturday

2009-06-28T12:57:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I attended the the Autism Resource Center of Arkansas’ June meeting at New Life Church in Conway. Childcare was provided - so I was able to attend. It was a small meeting, but lots of great discussion. Community Connections has several great programs coming online soon. I encourage you to check out their webpage http://www.communityconnectionsar.org/ One thing not listed on the webpage that we heard is starting soon is Flag Football. They have great speakers lined up for the next few months so I expect to see a large turnout in July!

Contact information:
Courtney Leach
Executive Director, Community Connections
Pediatrics Plus Therapy Services
2740 College Avenue
Conway, AR 72034
Cell: 501.733.1627
Fax: 501.325.1378

SCERTS training in Arkansas

2009-06-25T18:36:00.000-07:00

*SCERTS Model-Barry Prizant-a two day implementation training, Sept 24-25 at the Airport Holiday Inn in Little Rock, $360 per person, lunch included, registration closes on Sept. 18. This training is designed to provide information and skills that allow for implementation of the SCERTS Model for children with ASD and related disabilities. SCERTS is a new innovative approach that offers a framework of specific goals and procedures for assessment and
educational programming. The Social Communication, Emotional Regulation and Transactional Support domains of the model directly address the core challenges faced by children with ASD and related disabilities. SCERTS is not exclusive of other approaches. It is flexible enough to incorporate practices from approaches and teaching strategies that have been proven effective with children with ASD. It is comprehensive and integrated, representing a new generation of
educational approaches and evidence based practice. SCERTS is applicable for children from early stages of communication through conversational abilities and from early intervention through the elementary years and beyond. It is a team model designed to encourage
professionals from different disciplines to collaborate with families. Families are included as partners in assessment and education efforts that cut across school, home and community settings. Progress is measured in everyday functional activities with a variety of partners,
recognizing the absolute necessity for supporting communication and social-emotional development in everyday activities and routines. For hotel reservations, call 501-490-1000 and ask for the AR LEARN rate of $88. Email questions to stephaniee@dawson.dsc.k12.ar.us To
register, use the AR LEARN form under "helpful resources" on this page (www.arlearn.org) and FAX to Stephanie Eddy at 870-246-5892.

Family Leadership Project Accepting Application

2009-06-22T20:04:00.000-07:00

The DD Council is concerned with the well being of individuals with disabilities and their families a helping hand. From it’s new Family Resource Guide to its cooperation with other state agencies and organizations, the Council is actively engaged in helping families navigate an often complex system as they search for the resources necessary to meet the needs of the family and the child.

A major component in DDC’s family services is the Family Leadership Project (FLP). Conducted annually, the project’s primary objective is to assist its graduates in effectively participating in the development of policies, programs and services that directly impact their lives and the lives of family members with disabilities. FLP’s goals include providing participants with increased information about services and supports for individuals with developmental disabilities; assisting participants in better understanding the strategies needed to affect systemic change, and techniques on how participants to work more effectively with state and local service agencies.

The Council accepts Family Leadership Program applications for its annual training cycle through December 31 of each year. Classes are conducted six times beginning in January and ending in June. To get more information about the DDC’s family services and supports programs, publications and activities, including the Family Leadership Project, contact Family Services Coordinator Brenda Mercer at brenda.mercer@arkansas.gov.

http://www.ddcouncil.org/

NWA Celiac Awareness & Education Day

2009-06-15T19:56:00.000-07:00

Northwest Arkansas Celiac Awareness & Education Day

The National Foundation for Celiac Awareness invites you to join area
physicians, dieticians, restaurants, chefs, food industry leaders and families
affected by celiac disease and gluten intolerance at the Northwest Arkansas
Celiac Awareness & Education Day.

Friday, July 10th, 2009 9:00 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.

Holiday Inn Conference Center 500 S. 48th Street Springdale, AR

Tickets can also be purchased online through the National Foundation for Celiac Awareness website www.CeliacCentral.org

Questions? Need help with your order? Want to pay via credit card? please call NFCA Director of Operations, Nancy Ginter.
(215) 325-1306 x.101
ginter@celiaccentral.org
Orders MUST be received prior to Friday, July 3rd 2009

All Day Adult $40 each
All Day Student $35 each
Half Day Adult $25 each
Half Day Student $20 each
Lunch and Vendor Fair Adult $15 each
Lunch and Vendor Fair Student/Child $10 each

If purchasing a Half Day Ticket, Please indicate the educational session which you plan to attend:
9:30 a.m.- 1:30 p.m.
Hot Topic: The Gluten-Free Industry
12:00p.m- 1:30p.m.
Hot Topic: Advancing Awareness & Driving Diagnosis

Recommend Healing Thresholds

2009-06-15T19:38:00.000-07:00

http://autism.healingthresholds.com/about

This is a website with a weekly newsletter about the scientific efforts surrounding autism research. I have found it a very fair and open source of timely information. Thought I would share.

Little Rock Autism Families Meetup

2009-06-14T15:54:00.000-07:00

If you go to the Meetup.com website, look for Little Rock Autism Families meetup. It is listed under the Autism and Asperger's Syndrome topics. Here is the description for the group.

We are all about social activities, playdates, and parent-only gatherings for families with autistic children. If you and your autistic child are feeling isolated, please join and connect with other families for fun and social activities.

Several representatives of local autism groups are posting their activities, lectures, and fundraisers on the meetup group calendar. We hope that you do participate in their activities as well as our social events.

Please understand that the group is not providing professional behavioral support or medical advice. We will do our best to help you and your family have a great time. Through your connections on the meetup group we hope you can find solutions to vexing problems.

What a great way to join with other families in the Little Rock area and have some fun!

This is your brain on Autism

2009-06-09T07:52:00.001-07:00

This is Your Brain on Autism

A new and easy to understand perspective on autism

Easter Seals Arkansas, Little Rock—Friday, June 12th, 2009

Arkansas Tech University, Russellville—Friday, July 10th, 2009

Presented by Phillip Pengelly, CTRS

Arkansas Federation of Families for Children’s Mental Health

Call (501)766-1247 or email mrphillip2001@yahoo.com for registration. Cost of the workshop is $60 and includes lunch.

The workshop utilizes the latest in autism research to explain in easy to understand terms why therapies work and why our typical way of instruction that we all learned as children, doesn’t.

Although I have worked with hundred’s of individuals on the spectrum over the past 30 years of my life, I could never really explain autism, until I began my initial research on this subject matter.

I have had so many “ah hah” moments as I research further and believe that those who attend this workshop, regardless of experience will too.

This workshop is not about a new kind of therapy or treatment. It is about finally understanding the world of autism as they see it and how we can easily understand how to utilize what we are already doing and making it better; much, much better.

HBOT topic at Little Rock Morning Coffee Out

2009-06-08T18:49:00.000-07:00

Morning Coffee Out!

Join us for a support group for Parents and Caregivers of Children with Autism and all Special Needs. A place where we can share stories, give advice, get advice, talk, and meet new friends that Walk the Same Road with different turns.

Friday, June 19, 2009
8:15am
Coffee Beanery
17200 Chenal Parkway
Little Rock, AR 72223

For more information, contact Dawn Itzkowitz at 501-951-0115 or brycesbrigade@comcast.net or Misty Gaston at 501-912-8220 or mistygaston@gmail.com.

This is a reminder about the next Morning Coffee Out meeting on June 19th. Dr. Gary Villines with The HBO Clinic will be speaking about their clinic that does work with hyperbaric oxygen chambers.

Dr. Gary Villines
The HBO Clinic, PLLC
106 S. Rodney Parham Rd.
Little Rock, AR 72205
(501) 353-2130
www.thehboclinic.com

NAA Free Magic Springs Day

2009-06-08T18:38:00.001-07:00

The National Autism Association - Arkansas Chapter is hosting a "FREE" Fun Day at Magic Springs/Crystal Falls. If you reserve your spot with the NAA, you and your family's admission is free ($46 value). It even includes a "FREE" hot dog lunch.

This all takes place on Tuesday, June 23rd from 11 am to 8 pm at Magic Springs in Hot Springs, AR.

For more information and to reserve a space, please contact Arkansas NAA president, Cindy Fong ASAP! Her e-mail address is fongfam@charter.net (home: 501-803-0166 / cell: 501-952-6508).

Great Article by Dr. Sears

2009-06-01T17:39:00.000-07:00

Author of one of my favorite books - just had to share this article.

http://www.ageofautism.com/2009/06/dr-bob-sears-author-of-the-vaccine-book-if-a-vaccineautism-link-is-proven-will-vaccine-policy-change.html

I have found Dr. Sears to be a fair minded and reasonable source in this debate.

Loretta

Conway Activities

2009-06-01T07:25:00.000-07:00

APPLICATIONS ARE DUE this week! The Be a STAR performing arts camp is coming up July 17-22^nd at Central Baptist College in Conway. Be a STAR provides a creative, unique, integrated performing arts summer camp for children of varying abilities ages 7-17. The focus will be on each child’s individual strengths, allowing them to excel in the areas of performing arts including dance, instrumentals and vocals, drama, video, and set design. The cost is $100 for the 5 day camp and applications are available on our website or by clicking http://www.communityconnectionsar.org/pdf/beastar.pdf.

2. The Kids Helping Kids Trike-a-thon is THIS SATURDAY, June 6, at 10 a.m. at New Life Church in Conway! This will be a bike and tricycle race for kids ages 2-9 to help raise awareness and support for the programs Community Connections offers children with special needs. There will be food, inflatables, and fun for the whole family. We’d love for you/your children to come out and either race OR cheer the children on! Entry forms are available at www.communityconnectionsar.org.

Services available in Arkansas

2009-05-29T06:45:00.000-07:00

I've talked to several people lately about the lack of services in Arkansas. Couple of things come to mine. First, ABA is hard to find in Arkansas. There are a few consultants in Little Rock and some school districts in NW Arkansas that use it - but not much anywhere else. Equestrian therapy is available in Little Rock, Sherwood, and Russellville - that I know of. Aqua therapy is in Little Rock only - at this time. Services in general seem to be focused in Little Rock mainly, some in Jonesboro, some in NW Arkansas, Conway, and a smaller pocket in Russellville. The further south and southeast you go in the state, the fewer things are available. There are also about 1000 people on the Waiver waiting list. I strongly recommend parents applying for a slot to participate in the Arkansas Govenor's DD Council. Here is the web site.
http://www.ddcouncil.org/family_services.html

This training provides a great introduction to the services that are available in the state and also how to get them!

NAA Chapter Meeting

2009-05-29T06:44:00.000-07:00

Sunday, May 31, 2009 from 2-4pm

Where: Partners for Inclusive Communities
2001 Pershing Circle, Suite 300
North Little Rock, AR 72114
Directions: http://www.uams.edu/partners/directions.asp

Meeting Agenda:

* Chapter Business: We will discuss briefly our short and long-term goals for the group and provide information on opportunities for you to become more involved. Please bring and share any ideas you have for future speakers, events and meeting dates/times.

* Speaker: Jodi Eaton, a certified occupational therapist from Easter Seals, will present on the topic of sensory integration. She will provide a theoretical background on suspected causes of sensory integration dysfunction, therapeutic interventions used to treat the disorder, and practical activities that parents can use to help their child at home.

* Social: Time for socializing and support will be available after the speaker. Refreshments and door prizes (including a season pass to Wild River Country!) will be provided. Childcare not provided, but children are welcome to attend meeting with parents.

For more information about the meeting, please contact our current Arkansas NAA president, Cindy Fong, fongfam@charter.net, 803-0166 (home) or 952-6508 (cell).

Special Needs Parents in Pope County

2009-05-21T06:57:00.000-07:00

If you have a special needs child, here is the meeting for you. On June 2, from 6 to 8 pm, Rodney Farley will be facilitating a meeting with speakers from local agencies about ARKids, TEFRA, and Waiver. This meeting is critical for parents that have children with a disability that are in need of services. The Arkansas Parent Advisory Council is sponsoring the meeting and it will be held at the MiChild Enrichment Center in Russellville. If you are a parent of a child under the age of 18 with a disability, this is the meeting for you! If you have questions, please call Rodney Farley at 1-800-482-5850 X 22277 or Kristi Bartlett at 479-264-5616.

This is your Brain on Autism

2009-05-21T06:52:00.001-07:00

Good news! An interesting workshop from the field of Therapeutic Recreation is coming to Little Rock and Russellville. On June 12th (at Easter Seals Arkansas in Little Rock) and on July 10th (at Arkansas Tech), Phillip Pengelly, CTRS will be presenting "This is your Brain on Autism". This workshop is "a new and easy to understand perspective on autism" and is hosted by the Arkansas Federation of Families for Children's Mental Health. The workshop utilizes the latest in autism research to explain why therapties work and why our typical way of instruction that we all learned as children, doesn't. This workshop is not about a new kind of therapy or treatment. It is about finally understanding the world of Autism as they see it and how we can easily understand how to utilize what we are already doing and making it much better. If you are interested in attending, please e-mail mrphillip2001@yahoo.com or call 501-766-1247.

OzarksFirst.com

2009-05-06T16:49:00.000-07:00

Lawmakers Disappointed In Autism Coverage

Wednesday, May 6, 2009 @04:44am CST

(Springdale, AR) -- Arkansas state lawmakers encountered a roadblock for autism insurance coverage. Lawmakers and insurance companies were unable to agree on a state mandate to force companies offer insurance companies to offer coverage for children with autism.

Insurance Industry members believe government health mandates would be ineffective in solving the autism problem.

Legislators stated mandatory coverage could reduce autism expenses to $3.6 billion instead of the $7 billion it is currently at. Lawmakers plan to bring the discussion up again during the 2010 regular session.

(Copyright 2009 Newsroom Solutions, LLC)

From NWA Online...

2009-05-05T18:31:00.000-07:00

Lawmakers Question Autism Coverage

Last updated Tuesday, May 5, 2009 1:47 PM CDT in News

By THE MORNING NEWS

SPRINGDALE — Failure to require health insurance to cover autism was a major disappointment of the last legislative session, lawmakers participating in a forum said Tuesday.

Insurance industry witnesses at the legislative session were very good, "but their testimony is heartless. That is a strong word, but I really mean it," Rep. Uvalde Lindsey, D-Fayetteville, told at least 80 people attending the Arkansas Kids Count Coalition post-legislative conference.

Failure to pass the autism bill was the session's biggest disappointment for him, said Rep. Les Carnine, R-Rogers. Rep. Lindsley Smith, D-Fayetteville, said she believes there could be a legal case made against lack of coverage on the issue. Smith is an attorney.

Lost at School

2009-04-28T18:47:00.000-07:00

Having survived several tough days at school, my 7 year old and I are at a loss. Neither understands each other. On that note, I went back through my library and am giving Dr. Ross Greene's book, The Explosive Child another read. I may have forgotten a few things about dealing with my child. In addition, I have just ordered Lost at School: Why Our Kids with Behavioral Challenges are Falling Through the Cracks and How We Can Help Them - Dr. Green's latest edition. Actually, I ordered two - I am giving one to the new principal at my son's school. Dr. Greene has a significant amount of insight about kids on the spectrum and his checklist assessment of lagging skills and unsolved problems really makes me think. You can find this on the website for the Center for Collaborative Problem Solving.

MSNBC Autism Videos

2009-04-25T20:15:00.000-07:00

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/%2021134540/vp/30262936#30225368

is the link for a series of NBC Today show videos highlighting great topics on Autism!

Happy watching!

2nd Annual All Out for Autism!

2009-04-18T20:43:00.000-07:00

Well, I completed the 2 mile fun walk in the drizzle today. It was for a great cause - the 2nd annual All Out for Autism walk/run in Murray Park in Little Rock. For everyone that was there - impressive! If you missed it, you really missed out! I got a great t-shirt, caught up with old friends, and shared stories about our terrific kids. Mike Francis was there to capture it on camera and everyone had a blast. I can't wait to see what else AAROC has in store for 2009. http://www.arkansasautism.org/ is the website for AAROC. Just in case you are wondering, Autism Speaks is having a community meeting on May 14th at 6:30 pm at Camp Aldersgate - so come out and see what the organization has planned.

Walking for Autism on April 18th

2009-04-15T21:07:00.000-07:00

http://arkansasautism.org/ is the website to register or find more information about Saturday's All out for Autism 5K and fun walk. I plan to get there around 8:30 am so that I can park before the race starts. The fun walk - my speed - is at 10 am.

Loretta

DAN in OK

2009-04-14T18:26:00.000-07:00

Regional DAN Conference to be held in OK June 13-14

NORMAN, Okla., April 14 /PRNewswire/ -- Aaron's Bridge presents Autism Research Institute's Defeat Autism Now!(R) Regional Conference June 13-14, 2009, at The Embassy Suites Hotel and Convention Center at 2501 Conference Drive in Norman. The conference will feature seminars devoted to educating doctors, parents and professionals. Presenters including Elizabeth Mumper, MD; Bryan Jepson, MD; Dan Rossignol, MD; and Doreen Granpeesheh, PhD, will discuss topics such as behavioral and biomedical strategies, dietary interventions, what parents can do now and hands-on workshops for implementing treatment strategies.

On June 14, a Clinician Introductory Workshop with CME Credits will cover topics such as case histories, medical treatment strategies for gut disease and autism, integration of science and biomedical interventions for autism. A complimentary lunch will be provided by Aaron's Bridge.

"Autism is a challenge for pediatricians, their patients and families. By working together, we stand the best chance of helping these children to realize their full potential," American Academy of Pediatrics President Renee R. Jenkins, MD, FAAP said this past April. "The Academy is committed to working with researchers and treatment groups like Defeat Autism Now!(R) to get closer to finding answers to the multiple causes of autism and determining effective therapies."

Defeat Autism Now!(R) is distinguished by its commitment to invite only the most credible, accredited and forward-thinking researchers and clinicians as speakers.

The conference is sponsored by Aaron's Bridge. Keith and Joni Geary established Aaron's Bridge foundation because of their personal experience with autism. Their son, Aaron, was diagnosed with autism at age 3, and the family began to see promising improvements in his condition when he began biomedical treatments with Dr. Bryan Jepson at The Thoughtful House Center for Children in Austin, Texas.

Aaron's Bridge was created to facilitate access to more treatment options in Oklahoma for children with developmental disabilities, including autism spectrum disorder.

"We formed the foundation to build a bridge of hope, connecting Oklahoma families to effective solutions and treatment options, such as biomedical interventions," Joni Geary said. "This conference will provide families, particularly Oklahoma families, with up-to-date information regarding effective treatments for autism and most importantly, hope."

For a complete schedule and to register, go to www.regonline.com/ari-oklahoma.

Post Legislative Conference - Kids Count!

2009-04-13T19:18:00.001-07:00

Registration is now open for the
Arkansas Kids Count Coalition’s

Post-Legislative Conferences!

May 5 in Springdale

9 a.m. to noon

Jones Center

922 E. Emma Ave.

Springdale

Informative presentation to open the day’s events.

A de-briefing of the policy activity from the 2009 legislative session.

Our popular break-out sessions on the health, education, juvenile justice, and child welfare of Arkansas’s children and families.

Especially highlighted during this conference will be the complexities of the economic stimulus package and how it will affect Arkansas families.
Registration is free! Click here to register.

May 14 in Little Rock

8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

St. John's Catholic Center

2500 North Tyler Street

Little Rock

Informative presentation to open the day’s events.

A de-briefing of the policy activity from the 2009 legislative session.

Our popular break-out sessions on the health, education, juvenile justice, and child welfare of Arkansas’s children and families.

Especially highlighted during this conference will be the complexities of the economic stimulus package and how it will affect Arkansas families.

A luncheon complete with some inspiring speeches and the awards ceremony to recognize the nominees and winner of the Sister Joan Pytlik Award and demonstrate our appreciation for the Legislative Champions of the 2009 session.
Cost for the entire day, including lunch, is $10 for members of the Kids Count Coalition and $25 for non-members. Click here to register.

For more information, contact Paul Kelly: 501-371-9678, Ext. 102 or pkelly@aradvocates.org

ABA & TEACCH - no preference

2009-04-13T19:13:00.000-07:00

The Use of Concurrent Operants Preference Assessment to Evaluate Choice of Interventions for Children Diagnosed with Autism

Authors:

Brower_Breitwieser, C.; Miltenberger, R.; Gross, A.; Fuqua, R.; Breitwieser, J.

Source:

International Journal of Behavioral Consultation and Therapy, Volume 4, Issue 3, p.270-278 (2008)

Layperson Summary:

Children with autism do not seem to prefer applied behavior analysis (ABA) over Treatment and Education of Autistic and Communication Handicapped Children (TEACCH).

Two of the most common techniques for teaching children with autism are ABA and TEACCH. While ABA tries to make a child with autism the same as his peers, TEACCH tries to respect the culture of autism. Therapists tend to be loyal to one approach or the other. This study looks to see if children with autism would choose one technique over the other. The authors call on further research to look at choices that people with autism make with regards to intervention, leisure, and other issues that affect quality of life.

From Healing Thresholds http://autism.healingthresholds.com/

I recommend that you subscribe to their weekly e-brief.

Irlen Lenses Screening coming to Arkansas

2009-04-12T19:10:00.000-07:00

Do you know anyone who: has trouble reading words? is sensitive to light? gets a headache from reading?

Irlen May Be The Solution! [More about Irlen lenses can be found in the Autism 101 Manual]
Who: Individuals who may be affected by Scotopic Sensitivity Irlen Syndrome
What: Irlen Screenings or Lens Testing Appts.
Where: La Quinta Inn & Suites Downtown 617 S. Broadway Little Rock, AR 72201
When: April 22 from 1pm to April 23rd all day By appointment
Please contact Mrs. Catherine Barnes at 1-859-489-7773to make appointments or if you have any questions.

AR autism bill fails to get out of committee

2009-04-08T20:30:00.000-07:00

Bill to provide insurance coverage for autism dies in committee

Posted on 08 April 2009

By John Lyon
Arkansas News Bureau

LITTLE ROCK — A bill that would require insurers to provide health coverage for the diagnosis and treatment of autism failed to get out of a House committee today, the last full day of the legislative session.

Sen. Mary Ann Salmon, D-North Little Rock, the sponsor of Senate Bill 913, tearfully told the House Insurance and Commerce Committee she would refer the bill for interim study because she lacked enough support to win the committee’s endorsement.

The committee previously rejected the bill last week, two days after the Senate passed it 35-0.

Last week and again at a committee meeting Tuesday, representatives of the insurance industry testified in opposition to the bill, which was expected to raise health insurance premiums by an average of $1.48 per month.

Salmon said society pays a higher cost for not providing coverage for autism. The cost to the state to care for one autistic child is $120,000 a year, she said.

“Yesterday we heard the sky is falling. The sky fell on these people when they got a diagnosis of autism,” she said.

Defeat Autism Now! OKC Conference June 2009

2009-04-07T18:55:00.001-07:00

Regional Defeat Autism Now! Conference

Saturday, June 13, 2009 7:00 am -
Sunday, June 14, 2009 5:00 pm

Embassy Suites
2501 Conference Drive
Norman, OK 73069

Defeat Autism Now!® is known worldwide as the premier conference at which parents and clinicians join together and pool their understanding to uncover the causes, focus on effective treatments, and share our happiness at the recovery of some children. We do not claim to have all the answers; in fact, knowing we don’t is what keeps us moving forward. But thanks to the insights and tenacity of the parents, and the determination, professionalism, and open-mindedness of our researchers and clinicians, we can say unequivocally at every Defeat Autism Now!® Conference: Autism is Treatable. Recovery is Possible!

Join Us:

Explore the latest research and treatment findings
Experience hands-on support for taking a biomedical approach home
Network with parents and clinicians using the Defeat Autism Now! approach
Earn CME credits attending our Clinician Workshop (licensed medical providers)

Autism Research Institute
Defeat Autism Now! OKC
877-644-1184 (toll-free)

http://www.regonline.com/builder/site/Default.aspx?eventid=709507

Check by Mail
Complete your registration & print your confirmation and mail with your check, payable to Autism Research Institute to:

Defeat Autism Now! OKC Conference
c/o Denise Fulton, ARI Asst.
5417 Park Place Lp. SE
Lacey, WA 98503
Make checks payable to: Autism Research Institute

Help raise funds for Equestrian Zone

2009-04-06T22:26:00.000-07:00

Everyone:

This is a fundraiser for the equestrian therapy group that does my
son's HIPPO therapy (PT on a horse). I couldn't ask for a better
group of folks. If you are available May 30th, please consider
purchasing a ticket and coming out to visit the facility. Donations
are welcome *in any amount* if you are unable to join us for the
party!

Loretta

1st ANNUAL
EQUESTRIAN ZONE
RIDING FOR A REASON

BOOTS & BENEFACTORS BARBEQUE

May 30, 2009
5:00-8:00 PM
4800 South Frankfort * Russellville, AR
Tickets: $35 per person

Ticket Price Includes:
Scheduled Live Entertainment Featuring: Nik & Sam
ChuckWagon Dinner
Evening at the Races
Rider Stories

CORPORATE SPONSORS:
Cargill & UACCM
TICKETS GO ON SALE APRIL 1, 2009

FUNDRAISING GOAL: $15,000
http://www.equestrianzone.org/ to purchase tickets.

SB 913 AR House Commttee Meets Tuesday afternoon

2009-04-06T22:24:00.000-07:00

SB 913 (the bill to provide health insurance coverage for autism spectrum disorders) is taking another run at the Arkansas House tomorrow. It has been placed on the agenda for the House Committee on Insurance and Commerce for the Tuesday committee meeting that begins at 3 or 4 pm (after session adjourns). Now is a good time to e-mail the committee members for support. The committee members are as follows (* voted No or Not Present for last vote):

(Vilonia) Rep. Eddie Hawkins, Chair hawkinse@arkleg.state.ar.us
* (LR Central) Rep. Fred Allen, Vice Chair FredAllen99@comcast.net
(Mena) Rep. Bill Abernathy abernathyb@arkleg.state.ar.us
* (Prairie Grove) Rep. Mark Martin martinm@arkleg.state.ar.us
* (Monticello) Rep. Allen Maxwell maxwella@arkleg.state.ar.us
* (Magnolia) Rep. Bruce Maloch malochb@arkleg.state.ar.us
* (Melbourne) Rep. Eddie Cooper
* (Van Buren) Rep. Rick Green greenr@arkleg.state.ar.us
* (Camden) Rep. Willie Hardy hardyw@arkleg.state.ar.us
(LR Central) Rep. Wilhelmina Lewellen lewellenw@arkleg.state.ar.us
(Dumas) Rep. David Rainey raineyd@arkleg.state.ar.us
* (Paris) Rep. John Paul Wells wellsj@arkleg.state.ar.us
(Forrest City) Rep. David Dunn dunnd@arkleg.state.ar.us
* (Fort Smith) Rep. Frank Glidewell glidewellf@arkleg.state.ar.us
(Perryville) Rep. Johnny Hoyt hoytj@arkleg.state.ar.us
* (Springdale) Rep. Jon Woods woodsj@arkleg.state.ar.us
* (Marked Tree) Rep. Buddy Lovell lovellb@arkleg.state.ar.us
(NLR) Rep. Barry Hyde hydeb@arkleg.state.ar.us
(Manila-Blythville) Rep. Charolette Wagner wagnerc@arkleg.state.ar.us
(West Memphis) Rep. Keith Ingram kmingram@aol.com
(Speaker - ex officio) Rep. Robbie Wills willsr@arkleg.state.ar.us

Switchboard number at Statehouse 501-682-6211
Fax number at Statehouse 501-682-2917

Folks - we need two more votes. E-mail, call, fax these representatives and be heard on this legislation!

Loretta

Loretta Cochran
PO Box 138
Pottsville, AR 72858
lfcochran@gmail.com
479-567-9037

Contact Senators Lincoln and Pryor!

2009-04-05T19:42:00.000-07:00

Comprehensive Autism Legislation Introduced in U.S. Congress
Thursday, April 2, 2009
By: Carin Yavorcik (Autism Society of America website)

Autism Society of America Applauds Inclusion of Lifespan Services and Supports

Today, Senators Richard Durbin (D-IL), Robert Casey (D-PA) and Robert Menendez (D-NJ) introduced the Autism Treatment and Acceleration Act of 2009 (ATAA). The Autism Society of America applauds this comprehensive autism legislation focused around enhancing the quality of life for individuals on the autism spectrum and their families. Originally drafted by President Obama as a Senator, the bill includes aspects of legislation introduced in previous sessions of Congress, including the Expanding the Promise of Individuals with Autism Act, sponsored by then-Senator Hillary Clinton.

ASA especially applauds the inclusion of support services for adults on the autism spectrum in this bill. Currently, the federal government provides for educational services until age 21; however, autism is a lifelong disorder, and when the school bus stops coming, individuals and families are often left to fend for themselves. ATAA would create a demonstration project to provide an array of services to adults with autism spectrum disorders, including: postsecondary education; vocational and self-advocacy skills; employment; residential services, supports and housing; nutrition, health and wellness; recreational and social activities; and transportation and personal safety.

The legislation also would provide for the establishment of a national network to strengthen linkages between research and service initiatives at the federal, regional, state and local levels, and facilitate the translation of research on autism into services and treatments that will improve the quality of life for individuals with autism and their families. A national data repository would be created to share emerging data, findings and treatment models.

Other key aspects of the bill include:

the establishment of a national training initiative on autism and a technical assistance center to develop and expand interdisciplinary training and continuing education on autism spectrum disorders; and
a requirement that health insurers cover the diagnosis and treatment of autism spectrum disorders, including Applied Behavior Analysis therapy, assistive communication devices and other effective treatments.

ASA needs your help in order to help pass this critical legislation. Please contact both of your U.S. Senators and ask them to co-sponsor the bill. We’ve composed an e-mail describing all the vital aspects of this bill but it will be especially effective if you add your own story describing how ATAA would help you and your family.

The time to act is now. Please support this important issue today, and urge your friends to take action as well. Together, we can improve the quality of live for individuals with autism across the lifespan.

AR Legislative Call to Action

2009-04-05T18:59:00.000-07:00

There is a bill, SB 913, pending in the House Insurance and Commerce Committee that has significant potential to change the face of Autism in Arkansas. If you want to do something about Autism Insurance Coverage, contact the following Representatives and ask them to vote yes for SB 913.

Hello

2009-04-05T18:34:00.000-07:00

I created this blog to help bring awareness to autism in Arkansas. I also hope to provide information about resources in the state for families with a child on the Autism Spectrum of Disorders.