Current   Conferences and Workshops   page

Archives of past conferences are listed below.
 

AutismNews Home Page	New Parent Packet	Tax Deductible Ruling re conferences
News	Current Conferences & Workshops	Meetings

Autism Risk and Safety Management

     Family Support Services of Easter Seals Children's Development Center is
very glad to announce that we received the grant from the United Cerebral Palsy
of Blackhawk Region Fund of the Northern Illinois Community Foundation to bring
to our community Dennis Debbault.

   Dennis Debbault is a national speaker on Autism Risk and Safety Management. 
He will be speaking to the community emergency services providers, law
enforcement, fire department, rescue services, hospital staff, community service
providers, schools, disability service providers, parents, families, and
individuals affected by Autism and other disabilities.  The training is
scheduled for Tuesday, May 23, 2006.

   We will be working with the Northern Illinois Autism Parent Group and other
collaborators to make this event a success.  If you have any contacts or can
assist with the planning of the event, please call or email me.

   Tera Wenner
   Family Support Services
   Director
   Easter Seals Children's Development Center
   650 N. Main St.
   Rockford, Illinois 61103
   815-965-6745, x173
   www.eastersealsrockford.org

A conference for families and professionals
7/14/2006
Presented By: Various Presenters (including Rick Soloman (PLAY project), Phyliss
Rubin (Theraplay), Valeriea Nanclares-Nogues (Parent Training),  Patrick
Schwartz (Curriculum and Classroom Adaptations), Sarah Kozak, Tracy Lyndon and
Kim Garvey-Hohne (Tackling Challenging Behaviors), Joan Debelak (Asperger's
syndrome), Carolyn Nuyens (HANDLE), Gwendolyn Murphy & Nicole Davenport
(Promoting Learning and maximizing independence)-Sponsored by the Hope For All
Foundation in collaboration with the Illinois Early Intervention Training Program

Designed to promote autism awareness among professional service providers,
educators, administrators, parents/family/caretakers and those who deal with
children with autism, this day-long conference offers four learning track
options: Beginning Intervention Strategies; Working With Families; Intermediate
Intervention Strategies and Classroom Strategies. 

Registration cost includes: Continental Breakfast, Lunch, EXPO. 

Professional CEs/CPDUs for SLPs, PTs, OTs,
Social Workers, IL Certified Teachers as well as IL Early Intervention Credit is
available (ASHA approval pending). Registration can be made online using PayPal
or by downloading/print the attached Registration form and submitting payment
made payable to UCP of Chicago. Cancellations received no later than June 15,
2006 will be fully refunded. No refunds will be issued after June 15th.

Location: The Hilton Northbrook
          2855 N Milwaukee Ave
          Northbrook, IL 60062

Meeting Time: 8:45 AM - 3:30 PM

Registration Time: 8:00 AM

Contact for more information:
Illinois EI Training Program
866-509-3867
lgimble@ucpnet.org

Cost: 35.00, EI and other accreditation credits available
To register for this event, please download the form from
http://www.illinoiseitraining.org/events

Finding the Words

Please join us for a Remarkable Film About Children Recovering from Autism

You are invited to an enlightening evening as we premiere a provocative,
new documentary film by Elizabeth Horn. FINDING THE WORDS is the story
of eight "perfect babies", each given a grim diagnosis of autism
spectrum disorder (ASD) as toddlers, whose grieving families fight
prejudice, misinformation, and despair to get their children well again.
Filmed in thirteen locations across the United States, this documentary
is an ensemble piece, presenting elements of each family's long,
emotional journey through home videos, photographs and medical reports;
as well as interviews with the families, the childrens' doctors,
therapists and friends. Commentary on these remarkable stories is
provided by a courageous group of doctors all working to rewrite the
future for ASD-afflicted children by accepting a surprisingly
controversial premise: autistic children can recover.

FINDING THE WORDS captures complex human emotions-- watching parents
move from infinite sorrow to infinite joy as they realize their dream
and recover their child.  The film's recovery message urgently needs to
be heard, and these eight remarkable families overcome their fears of
the negative stigma autism carries to tell their stories -- determined
to change the world for all of the sick children still struggling to
find their way back.

The award-winning filmmaking team for FINDING THE WORDS includes Robert
Dalva (Academy Award Nominee for Editing THE BLACK STALLION) as Director
of Photography and Editorial Consultant; Susan Utell (editor of several
Emmy-Award winning documentaries) as editor for the project; Stuart
Sharpe (winner of several SIGGRAPH awards) as production and effects
designer; twice Oscar nominated sound mixer Nelson Stoll and Academy
Award-winning sound designer Andy Wiskes as sound recordists; and
Elizabeth Horn, writer/producer/director, whose daughter Sophia's
journey to recovery inspired this heartfelt work.

The Autism Center for Enlightenment, in partnership with
the Autism Recovery Consortium, is hosting 3 events in April (National
Autism Awareness Month) at the following locations and times:

RSVP:  Space in each locale is limited.  Please RSVP via e-mail with
both the location of your choice and also the number of people who will
be in your party:  seats@Illinoisautism.com
<mailto:seats@Illinoisautism.com>

The Autism Center for Enlightenment
www.AutismCenterforEnlightenment.com is an Illinois-based
not-for-profit organization dedicated to education and advocacy for
families impacted by Autism.  The Autism Recovery Consortium
www.AutismRecovery.org is a not-for-profit organization comprised of a
worldwide circle of interdisciplinary leaders who are working with and
studying children who have gotten well and who seek to share their
findings in an effort to build avenues of hope for the families of
autistic children.

View the movie trailer at www.findingthewords.org
<http://www.findingthewords.org/>

is proud to present their 1st quarterly mini conference of 2006.

March 11, 2006 from 10am to 1pm
Location:  Hannah Beardsley Middle School

Ron Ludwig, Principal of Hannah Beardsley Middle School, has generously provided a spacious conference
room consisting of 200 seats for this special event. Family, friends, teachers, therapists, aides, caregivers or anyone with a vested interest in autism,
are all welcome to attend.

Admission is free.  Donations will be accepted and will be used to support future group activities.

Please RSVP to 815 337 7772.

Childcare is not available at this event.  Childcare is very high on our list of priorities for our groups future gatherings.

**The following presentations will include information tailored to the families and caregivers of newly diagnosed children with autism.

  COMMUNICATING EFFECTIVELY.  There are a variety of intervention approaches to help a child with autism
communicate effectively, and relieve frustration.  These approaches will be presented to help families and support staff weigh the options of which
interventions  would be most beneficial for each child, their family and their educational environment.   Julie believes in a multi-disciplinary team approach
to treatment, in order to facilitate a child's ability to interact and communicate efficiently.
  Julie Ciero is a licensed Speech-Language Pathologist who has been practicing for almost 19 years.  She currently has her own private practice and is a
credentialed speech therapist for Early Intervention. She received both her BS and MS in Communication Disorders and Sciences from Eastern Illinois
University.
 

  OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY AND AUTISM:  Learn about how to help a child find the "just right place" in his sensory environment and the "just right feel" with his body; and use these strategies to facilitate engagement, interaction and learning in a fun environment.
  Ami Gandhi BS, OTR/L:  Ami has 9 years of experience in her field of study, and has been working with children with special needs for 8 years.  She is
credentialed in Early Intervention since 1999.
 

  A SUCCESSFUL INDIVIDUALIZED EDUCATION PLAN (IEP):
What's an IEP?  What do I do?  What are my rights as a  parent?  What does my child need?  The IEP process
doesn't have to be completely overwhelming.  Michelle will guide you through this maze and provide you with
the pertinent information to help you successfully navigate the IEP process.
  Michelle Augoustatos is an Educational Advocate and Community Access Coordinator for Options and Advocacy
for McHenry County.  She earned a BA in Special Education from Elmhurst College.  Her experience includes teaching students with MR, LD, BD, and Autism
in a public school setting, working as a job coach for adults with mental retardation, and residential employment with adults with mental retardation.  Her
passion is to create positive relationships with the families she serves as well as the schools she works with.
 

  WHAT IS A GLUTEN-FREE, CASEIN-FREE DIET?  Following a gluten free and casein free diet has been an important
and highly effective treatment for many people with autism.  Cathy will help you to understand the science behind the diet, explain how it works, and how to implement it.
  Catherine Gavin, RD, LDN, MPH:  Cathy joined the Pfeiffer Staff in 1997 and worked as the Insurance Support patient advocate while attending Benedictine
University, and is now the staff dietician.  She earned a Bachelor of Science in Nutrition in 2002, and completed a 2 year Dietetic Internship and Master of
Public Health Degree in 2005.  Cathy has a special interest in women and children's health and nutrition issues, and environmental sensitivities.  Cathy enjoys
working with patients of all ages, and their families.

*We strongly encourage the families of older children with autism to attend this conference as well.  The families of the newly diagnosed children will greatly
appreciate the support and benefit tremendously from your experiences.  Social group sign up and a variety of training session listings will also be available.

Agenda for today:

  9:30 - 10:00  Registration

10:00 - 10:15 Overview of 2006 activities.

10:15 - 10:45  COMMUNICATING EFFICIENTLY.  Julie Ciero
SPL (presentation, 10 min. Q.A.)

10:45 - 11:15  OT AND AUTISM.  Ami Gandhi BS, OTR/L
(presentation/ 10 min. Q.A.)

11:15 - 11:30 Break

11:30 - 12:00  A SUCCESSFUL IEP.  Michelle
Augoustatos, OA (presentation, 10 min. Q.A.)

12:00 - 12:30  WHAT IS A GFCF DIET?  Catherine Gavin,
RD, LDN, MPH (presentation, 10 min. Q.A.)

12:30 -  1:00  Q. and A. with panel of 4 professional speakers.

  1:00 -  1:30  Parent to parent forum:
  *information sharing
  *Social group sign up
  *Speech Therapy Training session sign up
  *OT Training session sign up
  *GFCF diet training session sign up
  *Mentor system sign up
  *"How to get the most out of our site.â??  sign up
  *Information gathering:
   1.  Professional Availability lists
   2.  Parent Directory for autism group of McHenry County
   3.  Community integration forms

  1:30          CONCLUSION:  All are invited to gather at (a local restaurant) following this event to further connect and share information.

3rd ANNUAL AUTISM AWARENESS CONFERENCE

APRIL 8, 2006
8:00 am - 3:30pm 
1719 S. Prospect Ave, Champaign, IL 
2 Great Speakers - 2 Great Conferences

• 2 Great Speakers - 2 Great Topics
• Free Giveaways like: A Playaway Swing System $400 value, Clicker 5 Software $199 value, and much more! Must be registered in advance  and present for the give-aways!
• Great vendors on site for all your Autism, Sensory, and Book needs. No need to order, save the shipping cost and pick it up while your here!
• Local/State Organizations to keep you up on what is happening in our area
• FREE Childcare - CAMP PROUDD is back with Having A BALL! Ages 0-13.

Wheaton College presents musical therapy.

An early childhood music class will allow 4 to 6 year olds with a parent of caregiver to participate in a musical experience of rhythm, songs and mvoement that facilitates cognitive learning and life-skill attainment. Private piano lessons will be available for children ages 7 to 12. Both 15 week music programs begin Jan. 20, 2006.

Call 630-752-5567 or go to www.wheaton.edu/csa

ABA 101

FREE workshop!

Sunday, February 5th 1:00

We have the answers you're looking for to help your child reach his/her fullest potential

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) at North Shore Pediatric Therapy, Inc.
NSPT's Glenview office
RSVP by Mon.Jan. 23
1308 Waukegan Road to (847) 486-4140

2nd Annual Autism Spectrum & Sensory Integration Expo: 2006 –

A Higher Standard is Within Reach

DuPage County Fairgrounds 2015 Manchester Road Wheaton, IL 60187

It is time once again for the Annual Autism Spectrum and Sensory Integration Expo! We are proud to announce that for this year’s event we bring you two of the most eminent professionals in the field of teaching & supporting individuals on the Autism Spectrum as well as those individuals with various challenging developmental disabilities.
Carol Gray of The Gray Center for Social Learning and Understanding will present on Friday (01/13/06) at 9:00 a.m. on “The 10 Habits of Highly Effective Teachers” & the esteemed educator, author and consultant, Paula Kluth will be presenting on Saturday at 9:30 a.m. on “Access to Academics for ALL” with a follow-up session from 2-4 p.m. on “Literacy & the ASD Student”.
In addition, a panel of parents & professionals advocating for those with ASD will be discussing an array of topics from early childhood, initial diagnosis, transitional services, adulthood and financial planning & a wide variety of local & national vendors & exhibitors of products & services will be on-site! Continuing Education: Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) - CPDU will be available for both days. / DHS & EI: 5 CEU hrs. per day

Institute for Human Services, Inc.
Local Mail: 6300 Kingery Hwy. Ste. 416-308 // Willowbrook, IL 60527
PH: 630-353-1858 // Fax: 630-729-3029 //
www.institute4hs.org

Decreasing Scripting in Children with Autism:

Sensory:

Regulation, body organization, and environmental factors.
Megan Carrick
Occupational Therapist and Sensory Integration Specialist

Ideation, auditory processing, and expressive formulation.
Crisler Lovendahl
Speech-Language and Developmental Therapist

Cognitive-behavioral causes, regulation, and extinguishing learned behaviors
Amanda Parker
Verbal Behavior and RDI Specialist

For more information please visit www.speechkids.net

ASPERGER SYNDROME WORKSHOP:

Including Students with AS in General Education and Assisting Students in the Regular Ed Classroom

FRIDAY, OCT. 14, 2005 9:00 a.m. - 3:15 p.m.

DEPAUL UNIVERSITY - NAPERVILLE 
Naperville Campus
150 W. Warrenville Rd.
Naperville, IL

5 CPDU's for Teachers
5 CEU's for OT's

A Workshop for: Teachers, Teacher Assistants/Aides, Inclusion Facilitators, Support Personnel

To Register, Call 954-346-5690 or E-mail: autism123@bellsouth.net 

TEACHER & AIDE SPECIAL OFFER:
Register 2 people by 10-7-05 and receive 50% off 2nd registration. 
A savings of $75.00! 
Must register by phone or Email. 
Leave registration information on voicemail at 954-346-5690 or email registration information to 
autism123@bellsouth.net

Asperger Syndrome Workshops
Presented by All About Autism, Inc. 
954-346-5690


Workshop Schedule: 
8:30 – 9:00 Registration
9:00 – 12:00 Morning Session
12:00– 1:00 Lunch Break (Lunch is provided) 
1:00 – 3:15 Afternoon Session

What attendees will learn:

Presenter:
Susan Thompson Moore, M.Ed.

Ms. Moore’s workshops offer practical solutions for addressing the academic and social needs of students with Asperger Syndrome.

Registration 
Professional $150.00 pp
Family Member $125.00 pp

TEACHER & AIDE SPECIAL OFFER: 
Register 2 people at the same time and receive 50% off 2nd registration.
A savings of $75.00!
Must be phone or E-mail registration by 10-7-05.

To Register by Phone, Call:
954-346-5690

Or E-mail registration information to:
Autism123@bellsouth.net

All About Autism, Inc. offers seminars, conferences, and workshops for professionals working with individuals diagnosed with 
Autism Spectrum Disorders and seminars for parents. Our presenters include Educators, Speech-Language Pathologists, Occupational 
Therapists, Paraprofessionals, and parents of children with Autism Spectrum Disorders.

All About Autism, Inc. also offers on-site training / in-service / staff development programs. Call 954-346-5690 for details.

Fall 2005 Workshop for SLP’s:

Thurs., Nov. 10, 2005
Asperger Syndrome & Speech Language Therapy:

Implementing Programs for 
Students with Asperger Syndrome

To register for any of our upcoming workshops, call 954-346-5690 or 
E-mail autism123@bellsouth.net.

Using Verbal Behavior to Analyze Language & PECS

North Suburban Autism Chapter Monthly Meeting - Guest speaker Kim Garvey Hoehne, M.A., a developmental & educational consultant. Mrs. Garvey Hoehne has been providing ABA services to families & children with Autism Spectrum Disorders for many years. She is the founder of KGH Consultation & Treatment, Inc., a private practice in Libertyville & Glenview. Jun 7 Skokie Village 7 to 9 P.M Skokie Village Hall 5127 W. Oakton Lower Level - Community Room - www.autismillinois.org/index.asp

info@autismillinois.org 630-691-1270

Challenging Behavior and Young Children with Autism

When: Sunday March 13, 2005,  10:00am to noon
 

Respite may be available if reservation is received by March 7, 2005.

JCB is a partner in serving our community, supported by the JUF/Jewish Federation

Autism Society of Illinois Fun Events

• Saturday Feb. 5, 2005 from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Discovery Center Children's Museum, 711 N. Main St. Rockford, Ill. 61103 Admission $3
• Saturday Feb. 12, 2005 6 - 9 p.m. DuPage Children's Museum 301 N. Washington St. Naperville, Ill. Admission $5
• Saturday Feb. 12, 2005 5:30 - 8:30 p.m. Children's Museum of Illinois 55 S.Country Club Rd. Decatur Admission $3
• Saturday Feb 19, 2005 5:30 - 8:30 Kohl's Children's Museum 165 Green Bay Rd. Wilmette Admission $5
• Saturday Feb. 26 5:30 - 8:30 Wonder Works Children's Museum 6445 W. North Ave. Oak Park Admission $4

The BHARE Foundation Presents: The 2005 CARE Conference

March 18, 2005
The Stonegate Conference Centre
Hoffman Estates, Illinois

Anju Usman, M.D.

James B. Adams, Ph.D.
Mercury Toxicity and Autism

Barbara T. Doyle, M.S.
Creating Lifetime Plans

10 Lifetime Goals, For People of All Ages, with ASD

http://www.bhare.org/CareConference.html

Early study shows Namenda may be effective treatment for autism

Dr. Michael Chez of Illinois presented a study of the use of the new drug memantine in 30 children with autism. This drug, marketed under the brand name Namenda, has been approved in the US for the past 6 months to treat the memory dysfunction associated with Alzheimer's disease. The parent ratings were quite positive, with 26 out of 30 parent questionnaires suggesting improvement in attention, motor planning, language, and self-stimulatory behavior. There were no side effects reported. Dr. Chez is also scheduled to report the use of memantine in children with seizures in a separate presentation to the American Epilepsy Society in December. Those children, some of whom presumably had autism as the cause of their seizures, showed improvements in the numbers of their seizures and also in behavior.

Although these 2 studies were not conducted in a blinded fashion , the results are encouraging, and suggest that this medication may be very useful in children with autism, with or without a seizure disorder. In addition, no lab tests are needed to ensure safe use. Some of the antiseizure meds, such as Depakote, require periodic blood test monitoring to ensure safety.

Promoting Independence and Participation for Children and Adults on the Autism Spectrum:

The Technology Solution by Barbara Doyle

experts!
IDEA requires Assistive Technology to be considered
Resources, resources, resources: for information, devices, device loan
programs, cash loan programs, assessments, training and more!
Autism Society of Illinois
2200 S. Main Street
Suite 317
Lombard, IL 60148-5366
630-691-1270 Phone
630-932-5620 Fax
(http://www.autismillinois.org/)

April 7, 8 & 9

WORKSHOPS

Friday, April 8^th

Workshop 1: Teaching Language to Children with Autism and Other Developmental Disabilities

Presenter: James W. Partington, Ph.D., BCBA

Saturday, April 9^th

Workshop 2: Developing Effective Teaching Strategies using Student's Data from The Assessment of Basic Language and Learning Skills (ABLLS)

Presenter: James W. Partington, Ph.D., BCBA

Workshop 3: Using Skinner’s Analysis of Verbal Behavior to Teach Language Skills During Daily Activities to Children with Autism or Other Developmental Delays

Presenter:James W. Partington, Ph.D., BCBA 
 
 

Workshop 4: Improving Social Interactions of Children with Autism and Other Developmental Disabilities

Presenters: Teresa Grimes, M.S., BCBA & Steven Ward, M.A., BCBA

Workshop 5: Teaching Advanced Verbal Repertoires to Children with Autism, Teresa Grimes, M.S., BCBA & Steven Ward, M.A., BCBA
 

Workshop 6: Behavioral Diagnostic Paradigm for Integrating Behavior Analytic and Psychopharmacological Supports for People with Dual Diagnoses

Presenter: David A. Pyles, Ph.D., BCBA 
 
 

  presentations :

THURSDAY, April 7^th

·Keynote Address: James W. Partington, PhD, BCBA

·Presidential Address: Mohammad Al-Attrash, Ph.D., BCBA

·Positive Behavioral Supports, Patricia S. McGuire, Ph.D.

·Effective Behavioral Case Consultation, David A. Pyles, Ph.D., BCBA

·Implementation of Functional Behavior Assessment in Illinois Schools: Issues in Personnel, Dennis D. Munk, Ed.D., Ed Cancio, Ph.D., Lynette Chandler, Ph.D., & Jennifer Pecoraro, M.S.Ed.

·ABA from the Table to the Home, Christopher Simler, BA

·Automatic Reinforcement and Echoic Behavior, Teresa Grimes, M.S., BCBA & Steven Ward, M.A., BCBA

·ABA Strategies & Social Communication Growth for Students with Autism, James Emmett, M.S.

·Case Studies in the Analysis & Intervention of Pica, Yemonja Smalls, Ph.D.

·Introduction To Functional Assessment, Mohammad Al-Attrash, Ph.D., BCBA

·Introduction To Writing Behavior Programs, Deborah Pappas, M.S., BCBA

·Using Behavior Management Committee to Improve Standards of Practice, Christopher S.  Baglio, M.S.

·CSOPP Symposium and Posters: Rajnita Gupta, Jill Hollederer, Melinda Pieniazek, Carlos Vazquez. Lorena Arevalo. Robert Alexander, Frank Buono, and Fatima Aziz
 
 

FRIDAY, April 8^th

·Invited Address: Jeri Johnson, Director, DHS Division of Developmental Disabilities

·Performance Engineering to Achieve Sustained Consumer Health, Guy S Bruce, Ed.D., BCBA,

JohnEshleman, Ed. D. & James Keefe, M.S.

·They Resemble Flashcards but… How to Chart Efficient Learning with SAFMEDS, John W. Eshleman, Ed. D.

·Restrictive Behavior Program Procedures: Issues & Considerations, David A. Pyles, Ph.D., BCBA

·Precision Teaching, Charles Merbitz, Ph.D., BCBA

·Discussion Session: Overcoming Behavior Programming Barriers in Applied Settings, David A. Pyles, Ph.D., BCBA, & Christopher S.  Baglio, M.S.

·Precision Teaching Strategies to Support Life Skill Growth in Adolescents/Adults with Autism Spectrum Disorders, James Emmett, M.S.

·Combing Multiple Treatment Methodologies in the Home for Children with Autism, Teresa Grimes, M.S., BCBA & Steven Ward, M.A., BCBA

·Roundtable: Improving ABA services for Children with Autism/PDD in Illinois, James Emmett, M.S., Selma Martinez, M.S.Ed., BCBA, Janice Pellecchia, M.A., BCBA

·Your Rights Solution – The Role of A Human Rights Committee in Behavior Intervention Programming, Katherine D. Hamann, Frank Mikulski, M.S.

·Chart Share, Charles Merbitz, Ph.D., BCBA
 

BASIL is a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting behavior analysis and to the humane and ethical application of behavioral technology.  BASIL members are involved in research and application of behavior analysis in education, developmental disabilities, rehabilitation, psychopharmacology, parent training, functional assessment of behavior, and standards of practice.
http://www.abachicago.com/STUFF/Behavior%20Analysis%20Society%20of%20Illinois%20BASIL%2005.htm

Association for Behaviour Analysis, 31st Annual Convention in Chicago

http://www.abainternational.org/convention/index.aspx

Autism One is focused on education and information, covering a broad range of topics, for parents, family members, practitioners, educators, researchers, and others involved in the care, treatment, and recovery of children with autism.
Caring for and treating children with autism requires a multivariate approach across a variety of disciplines offering the widest number of options based on the individual needs of each child.

Treating autism brings a multitude of factors that must be considered when evaluating and implementing a comprehensive treatment program. These issues include dealing with schools, insurance companies, government entities, legal questions, daycare, among a host of others.

Autism One brings together practical and proven solutions, leading-edge models of treatment, the most recent research findings, reports from parents, and presentations from such government agencies as the Centers for Disease Control and the National Institutes of Health.

In order to meet the needs of developing the best treatment programs the conference is divided into four tracks. The tracks are:

•  Biomedical Treatments
•  Behavior / Communication / Education Therapies
•  Complementary / Alternative Treatments
•  Government / Legal / Personal Issue

http://www.autismone.org/homepage.cfm

• Background of the disease
• Neuropharmacology
• Neuroanatomical facts
• Immunological aspects
• Epileptic treatment options
• Behavior modifying pharmacological treatments
• Sleep dysfunction and treatment

"Defining Autistic Spectrum Disorders." by Dr. Michael G. Chez

related published article, Semin Pediatr Neurol. 2004 Sep;11(3):229-35.:

"Making Medical Sense of Treatment in Autistic Spectrum Disorders." by Dr. Michael G. Chez

Dr. Chez is certified by the National Board of Medical Examiners I-III, the
American Board of Pediatrics, and the American Board of Psychiatry and
Neurology, with special competence in Child Neurology.
Dr. Chez is a pediatric neurologist and epilepsy specialist with research
and clinical expertise in development epilepsy, and author of numerous
articles, chapters, and presentations in the medical field of autistic spectrum
disorders. Dr. Chez has served as an advisor on autism to Cure Autism Now (CAN),
the MIND institute in California, and the Council for Developmental Disorders.
Dr. Chez has pioneered research in epilepsy, Alzheimer's drugs, alternative
therapies and immunological aspect of autism.

Dr. Chez lecture will include an
overview of the condition of Autism, Diagnostic of Autism, Genetics of
Autism, Clinical Spectrum, Diagnostic Testing and Treatment Options. Dr. Chez is
known worldwide for his expertise in neurological diseases and autism spectrum
disorders. We are very privileged to have Dr. Chez speak at our chapter
meeting. Dr. Chez promises to allow plenty of time for questions and answers.
Please plan to attend this meeting, as you will not want to miss this world
renown most informative speaker!

Our November 2, 2004 meeting will feature guest speaker Alan G. Spector,
M.A. Executive Director and CEO to Glenkirk. Glenkirk provides social services
including educational, recreational, supported employment and residential help
for people of all ages with developmental disabilities. This year, Glenkirk
celebrates 50 years of "helping individuals with disabilities broaden their
horizons." When Glenkirk began, they helped just a handful of children. Since
then, they have grown exponentially to provide a network of support for over
1,000 children and adults from more than 70 Chicagoland communities providing
vocational, residential, and support services. Their 50th Anniversary is a
testament to the power of people. From the parents who created Glenkirk to the
wonderful volunteers, employees, and supporters who make up the Glenkirk
family today, their successes have relied on dedication and hard work. Of
course, none of these accomplishments would have been possible without the
efforts of the children and adults with developmental disabilities that they serve.
Glenkirk's new tagline "helping individuals with disabilities broaden their
horizons" celebrates volunteers, employees, families and contributors, and
celebrates those they serve who are "broadening their horizons." When they help
program-participants reach their fullest potential, Glenkirk is helping each
one broaden their horizons! Through Glenkirk's vocational programs, they are
helping adults prepare for a future of employment and independence in the
community. In Glenkirk's residential programs, they are building communities,
creating home environments and fostering relationships with their neighbors.
Glenkirk's support services provide a network of Early Intervention Services,
Respite Care, Social Work and Advocacy to meet the needs of families. Glenkirk
is broadening horizons for children and families around the world by pairing
children in need of a home with loving adoptive families. Now celebrating
their 50th Anniversary, they are especially thankful for the friends that
support them and believe in their mission. Volunteers, families, and staff lay
the foundation for Glenkirk's growth. Mr. Spector hopes you will continue to
partner with them"helping individuals with disabilities broaden their
horizons."
 
 

Our next Meeting: Tuesday, March 1, 2005
Skokie Village Hall
5127 W. Oakton
Lower Level - Community Room
7:00 to 9:00 P.M.

Our meeting will feature guest speaker Phyllis Kupperman, M.A., CCC-SLP/L.
Founder and Executive Director of the Center for Speech and Language
Disorders in Elmhurst and Chicago in her presentation titled: "How Do
Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders Learn to Communicate?" Mrs. Kupperman will
discuss the characteristic language learning style of children with Autism
Spectrum Disorders. Intervention strategies using visual and verbal patterns will be
demonstrated. Examples will be drawn from the presenter's extensive
clinical experience. She has given numerous presentations throughout the U.S.
and Canada on language learning in children with autism spectrum disorders. She
has received national media attention for her work with children with
hyperlexia. As a clinician, she is grateful to the children and families who
have shared their journey and continue to be her best teachers.
The mission of the Center for Speech and Language Disorders, (CSLD) is to
help children with communication disorders reach their full potential through
family-centered services. For over 25 years, this not-for-profit agency, with
offices at 195 W. Spangler, Elmhurst, IL and 430 W. Erie, Chicago, IL, has
provided speech and language evaluations and therapy for children from the
metropolitan Chicago area. Families from throughout the U.S. and abroad have
sought consultations from their experienced staff. CSLD offers various levels
of evaluations to assess an individual's communication skills. Their
clinicians have developed individual treatment programs to address the needs of

children diagnosed with hyperlexia, autism spectrum disorders, nonverbal
learning disabilities and other speech and language disorders. Social language groups
for children, teens and young adults help participants learn and practice
peer interaction skills. CSLD offers publications, an annual conference and
community and professional programs. For more information on CSLD visit their
website at _www.csld.org_ (http://www.csld.org/) . Mark your calendars now and
plan on attending this meeting, as you will not want to miss this will known
and most interesting speaker! Mrs. Kupperman promises to allow plenty of time
for questions and answers.

The Center for Speech and Language Disorders

20th Annual Conference, October 1, 2004.

http://www.csld.com/conferences.html

Oct 15, 2004

Merrillville, Indiana (N.W. Indiana—near Chicago!) 
at the Radisson Hotel (http://www.radisson.com/merrillvillein)

Tamara S. Kasper, MS, CCC/SLP and Nancy Kaufman, M.A., CCC/SLP (http://www.kidspeech.com/)

Cost $169.00 / Group Price $149.00

(SLPs—CEUs are available. Contact Hours = 7)

This program examines the process by which children with autism and apraxia of speech become motivated to express their wants and needs verbally. Children who may have an adequate repertoire of consonants and vowels in isolation may not be able to coordinate the motor movements necessary to produce and combine these units to form syllables, words, phrases, and sentences. These children may not be able to speak or may be unintelligible speakers. They may even have difficulty executing the oral movements necessary to produce isolated phonemes. Add to this scenario the diagnosis of autism and the behaviors associated with this diagnosis (avoidance, aggression, and/or self-stimulation) and the management of these children can become difficult and challenging. This clinical program will focus on the evaluation and treatment of children with developmental apraxia of speech who may also have a diagnosis of autism. The information presented will stress techniques and procedures to maintain cooperation while assisting children to become verbal communicators. Kaufman's hierarchy of shaping word approximations toward functional vocabulary and language will also be presented.

Online registration is available through Northern Speech Services, Inc.-National Rehabilitation Services:

Go to www.nss-nrs.com, choose “CE Seminars” from the drop- downs near the top of the page, then choose “By Date” or “By State”). To register by phone, call 989-732-3866.

• Maria Wheeler
• Temple Grandin
• Dennis Debaudt

I-CARE : Illinois- Curing Autism through Research and Education

an ABA Educational Program
for Children with Autism
Thursday, September 30, 2004 at 8:30 am
Prairie State College
Matteson Area Center
additional information

Autism Awareness & Fundraising Event
Some Saturday in April 2005
Prairie State College - 202 S. Halsted
Chicago Heights, IL
www.artsforautism.org

I-CARE 5K Run/Walk for Autism
Fundraising Event
June 2005
Governors State University
University Park, IL
www.irunwalkforautism.org
http://www.icareinfo.org/index.html

Archives of earlier conferences

March 1st and 8th Kendall County Special Education Cooperative is proud to offer session two of this year's Parent Training Course and will be instructed by Tammera Lawson, parent and child advocate.

During Week 1 will offer skill building and strategies in the areas of:

• Accountability - What's the difference between the School and Parent?
• Rights and Responsibilities - We all have some!
• Communication - How to bridge the unpassable
• Goals & Objectives - What exactly is "measurable"?
• Functional Behavioral Assessments & Behavior Intervention Plans - Untangling the web of confusion

DATES: Saturdays, March 1st and 8th
TIME: 9:00 - 1:00 p.m. each day
LOCATION: Kendall County Opportunity School in Oswego, IL
33 E. Stonehill Drive Oswego, IL 60543

Beyond Preferential Seating: Managing Children's Central Auditory Disorders

Jeanane M. Ferre, Ph.D. will explain the M3 model which is a science-based diagnosis used to develop logical and deficit-driven intervention strategies.

Part of the "Grand Rounds" series sponsored by the Rush Neurobehavioral Center of Rush Children's Hospital

Tuesday, March 11, 2003, 12:30 - 1:30 pm, Rush Northshore Medical
Center, 9600 Gross Point Road, Skokie, IL at the Sharfstein Center.
847/933-9339 ext. 222

STAR Net conferences

IEP & Autism Parent Conference

Radisson Hotel & Conference Center
10 Brickyard Dr.
Bloomington, Illinois
309-664-6446

"Autism/PDD and Special Education Law:
The Good, the Bad and the Unknown Future"
 Day 1: Matthew Cohen will focus on what parents of children with Autism/Pervasive Developmental Disorders need to know about special education law and the IEP process, including parental rights and responsibilities. He will also address current local and national special education issues and the status of IDEA reauthorization. There will be an opportunity at the close of the presentation for "open microphone" questions and answers.

AM: "Understanding & Writing Goals and Objectives"
PM: "Active Participation in the IEP"
Day 2: This day will involve small facilitated work groups designed to encourage more meaning ful and effective participation by parents in the special education process and their child's IEP. These activities are primarily targeted for the benefit of parents but professionals are welcome to attend with a parent as a team.

• The Illinois/PDD Training and Technical Assistance Project
• Project Choices, and
• STAR Net

Diane Lamba
1301 W. Cossitt Ave.
LaGrange, IL  60525
708-354-5730, ext 574
fax 708-354-0733
dianelamba@ladse.org

Council of Parent Attorneys and Advocates (COPAA)

Hyatt Orlando, FL
March 13-16, 2003

Perhaps the best Special Education legal scholars anywhere.

Wrightslaw Advocacy Training

CARE

Sympoisum on Auditory Processing Disorders and Non-Verbal Learning Disabilities

A Sympoisum on:  Dynamic Interventions/Management of Your Difficult Cases-

• CAPD - Central Auditory Processing Disorders
• NVLD - Non-Verbal Learning Disabilities
• Executive Function
• PA - Phonological Awareness

Rehabilitation Act Training Workshops
Building Your Child's Future through the Rehabilitation Act
Thursday, April 10 and 17, 2003
9:30 am - 4:30 pm
20 E. Jackson, room 300
call 312-939-3513 as space is limited.
$10 - includes lunch for both dates

 Participants will receive the following materials (free!):

• Rehab Act Training Manual
• How to Organize an Effective Parent Group and Move Bureaucracies
• How to Get Services by Being Assertive
• The Road to Work (by PACER Center)
• other valuable materials

Sexuality and Children with Autism or other Special Needs: Coping with Adolescence

• implement practical strategies for teaching modesty, appropriate touch, social distance and protective skills,
• respond to the changes of puberty by teaching practical coping skills to students and making supportive changes in their environment,
• analyze and respond to problem behavior that may be sexual,
• understand why children with special needs, including autism, need sex education,
• implement a sex education program in middle school and high school, and
• apply principles taught.

Childhood Communication Seminars

Autism One Conference

Dr. James B. Adams, Ph.D.+ Dr. Marshalyn Yeargin-Allsopp, M.D.+ Margaret Ayers +Teresa Binstock +Liz Birt +Cheryl Blackwell+Bruce Boyer+Dr. Brazdziunas+Dr.Timothy Buie, M.D+Dr. Jeffrey Cantor, DDS+Jane Casey+Dr. Stephanie Cave+Dr. Andy Cutler+Mary Anne Ehlert+Dr. Joan Fallon+Dr. Steve Foote+Raymond Gallup+John Garrett+Georgianne M. Gerber, LCSW, BCD+Dr. Boyd Haley+Dr. John Hicks+Mary Higinbotham+Sonja Hintz R.N., B.S.N+Dr. Patricia Kane+Carolyn Keatinge+Michael Lang+Willis Langford+Joe Lillard+Lewis Mehl-Madrona, M.D. Ph.D.+Jackie Marquette+Stephanie Marohn+Joseph Morrow, Ph.D+April Oaks+Susan Owens+Robert Parish+Dr. Isaac Pessah+Morana Petrofski+Betsy Prohaska+Tim Ray+Rick Rollens+Amy Rothenberg ND+Adrienne Rousseau+Ravi Roy+Dr. Carola M. Lage-Roy+Dr. André Saine+Mark Schauss+Jeff Sell+Dr. William Shaw+Dr. Tinus Smits+Dr. Aristo Vojdani+Dr. Andrew Wakefield+William Walsh, Ph.D+Andrea Watson+Sandra Weizman+Dr. Brian Wikoff

Too big to list here!

More STAR Net

March 6
Emergent Literacy Strategies for Young Children with Special Needs
Presenter:      Judy K. Montgomery

March 11
Hearing and Vision Functional Screening

March 12
Successful Intervention Strategies in Hearing and Vision
Presenters:    Mindy Ely & Nancy Scott

April 28
When All Else Fails – Strategies for Successful Toilet Training
Presenters:    Patti Boheme & Mary Crissman

April 30
Taming the Transition Confusion, Part I - Moving from Early Intervention to Early Childhood
Presenters:    Lisa Fisher & Pat Kluzik Stauch

May 13
Autism 101
Presenter:      Peg Mazeika
Focus of workshop:  Introductory

May 15 & 16
Transdisciplinary Play-Based Assessment: Pulling Together the Pieces
Presenter:      Toni Linder

June 4
Taming the Transition Confusion, Part II - Problem Solving
Presenters:    Lisa Fisher & Pat Kluzik Stauch

June 18
Understanding and Helping Children with Sensory Integration Difficulties
Presenter:      Kimberly Bryze

June 24
1001 Ways to Tell A Story: Strategies for Using Books with Young Children
Presenter:      Marsha Glick

2- Day PECS Training Workshop

Literacy for the Child with Autism

Wauconda Public Library
801 Main Street
Wauconda, IL

Description:  Put toileting and other high stress teaching aside for a few hours.and let's make a book! In this fast paced and fun workshop, participants will learn the benefits of literacy as a  backdoor to learning and expanding language.  Participants will have an opportunity to create a book around a meaningful event or topic the child has experienced.  Materials created will be useful at home and at school.  Participants should bring photos, brochures, and artifacts around an event, topic or theme.

Parents and teachers are encouraged to come together to work on the creation of books for their learner.Join us for a fast paced, high energy presentation!

There is no charge for this training, but due to limited seating please reserve your space as soon as possible.  Please remit registration
information:  Diane Lamba 1301 W. Cossitt Avenue LaGrange, IL 60525
Phone 708-354-5730 x574  Fax:  708-354-0733
www.illinoisautismproject.org

Autism Spectrum Treatment Options: New Medical Therapeutic Intervention Options

presented by Dr. Michael Chez 
Wednesday, January 29, 2003 7:00-9:00 p.m.
Lake Forest Hospital
Please  call 847.535.6177 to register.

• Background of the disease
• Neuropharmacology
• Neuroanatomical facts
• Immunological aspects
• Epileptic treatment options
• Behavior modifying pharmacological treatments
• Sleep dysfunction and treatment

Pediatric Neurology, SC
Carnosine

Training for Parent Leaders - Thursday, February 6, and Thursday February 13, 2003.

Morning Thursday, February 6 - Advocacy and Negotiation
Afternoon Thursday, February 6 - One to One Assistance
Morning Thursday, February 13 - Outreach and Publicity
Afternoon Thursday, February 13 - Traiing and Communication

The cost for the training is a modest $10.00 and includes lunch for both days.  To register for this course contact the Family Resource Center at 312/939-3513

If you want to attend but can't make the scheduled dates, or would like information about car pooling arrangements, contact parent Curt Sahakian at 847/676-2774 or cpart@partneringagreements.com

Teaching Children with Autism to Talk

A Workshop For Parents
Presented by Sally Bligh
Sally Bligh, MCD, CCC-SLP a speech and language therapist will share the knowledge that she has gained in her 30 years experience working directly with autistic children, teaching them to talk. Her technique combines many of the popular approaches, but each is used specifically to accomplish a specific goal. Her methods acknowledge the learning style of autistic children. These children learn language in a way different from their peers. They learn through patterned teaching, gestalt processing, echolalia and intense interest in certain subjects. Therefore, they must be taught in a way that uses their strengths while at the same time teaching them to use language reciprocally to communicate with others.

Specific activities that you can use with your children as they progress through the developmental stages of learning language as an autistic child will be shown on videotapes of actual speech and language sessions.

The newly released video, Teaching Children with Autism to Talk will be shown.

The workshop will be held at the Bligh Speech Therapy Center, 1011 Lake Street, Suite 216, Oak Park, IL.
(Parking is available behind the building on Forest Ave.)

The cost of of workshop is $30.00 per person or $50.00 per couple.

To reserve your registration, please call the Bligh Speech Therapy Center at 708.386.8971.

Sally Bligh, MCD, CCC-SLP
Director, Bligh Speech Therapy Center
1011 Lake Street, Suite 216
Oak Park, IL 60301
Phone 708.386.8971
Fax 708.386.9018
sbligh@sbcglobal.net

Meeting About Self Advocacy

Suburban Access, Inc., Family Network and Support
Group meeting on self advocacy.

SCHEDULED SPEAKERS:
Mary Meyer, Advocates United

WHERE:

Suburban Access, Inc.
925 West 175th Street
Homewood, IL  60430
2nd Floor Meeting Room

2003 Chicago Auto Show First Look for Charity Event

Thursday Februrary 13, 2003
McCormick Place South, Chicago , IL
Black-tie event, hors d'oeuvres. champagne, wine, soft drinks.
6:30-10:30pm

Drawing for a 2004 Pontiace Grand Prix at 8:30PM. Winner must be present.

Tickets $175 per person

For more information call 630 415-0355  or the visit the web site www.cureautismnow.org

The event is the night before the auto show opens at McCormick place and guests may sit in the new autos, and enjoy the wonderful food and drink!
We are also happy to announce that FRED HUEBNER from the WSCR am sports radio in Chicago will join us for the evening!!!

STAR Net conferences

January 15
Taming the Transition Confusion, Part I - Moving from Early Intervention to Early Childhood

January 23
Making Language Visible

Presenters:    Wendy Partridge & Cris Lovendahl

Presenters:    Jennifer Bollero & Pat Kluzik Stauch

February 24
Finding and Using the Resources You Need
Presenter:      Pat Kluzik Stauch

February 26
The Developing Brain
Presenter:      Marilee Sprenger

AutismNews Home Page	New Parent Packet	Tax Deductible Ruling
Current Meetings	Current Conferences & Workshops	Current News