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Empowering Through Information and the Fostering of Connections
Acceptance. Intervention. Civil Rights. September 07, 2017

In This Issue

Autism drugs may alter brain connectivity

Researchers: What We Know About Girls On The Spectrum 'May Be Wrong'

Computer tool maps ridges on brain's bumpy surface

Parents and Others Looking for Help!!!

San Diego Regional Center Regarding Respite Services ~ Changes in limits of respite care will be coming in January 1, 2018

Developmental DIR Autism Therapy in Your Home!!!

RDI Information Night at TAG in Mira Mesa

Autism Speaks: San Diego Walk for Autism

The ABCs of IEPs* (*Individualized Education Program)

Back to School Special Pricing at MicroCurrent 4 Kids!!!

Sports 4 Exceptional Athletes September Newsletter

NFAR GRANT PROGRAMS - Application Period Now Open!

Jeremiah's Ranch September Newsletter

Love and Autism Conference in San Diego!

NFAR Men's Group - Sep 14, 2017

Dance for Teens and Adults with Special Needs

BRAIN DEVELOPMENT IMAGING LABS - Recruiting Participants

Support & Information for Adults: SSI and IHSS Eligibility, Medi-Cal

Coffee Talk


 




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  • Autism drugs may alter brain connectivity

  • Children with autism who take certain medications have different patterns of brain connectivity than do unmedicated children with the condition, a new study suggests1.

    More than half of children diagnosed with autism take psychotropic drugs, such as Prozac and Ritalin, to ease features related to autism. The drugs are designed to alter brain function, so it is reasonable to assume they also affect how different parts of the brain interact.

    The new study hints that drug usage enhances the degree of synchronization between regions of the cortex, the brain's outermost layer. Read on...

  • Researchers: What We Know About Girls On The Spectrum 'May Be Wrong'
  • Even though they score higher on tests of communication and social skills, girls with autism appear to struggle more than boys with the demands of everyday life.

    New research finds that girls on the spectrum have more difficulty with planning, organizing, making small talk and other adaptive skills needed to get up, get dressed and make it through the day.

    The findings come from a study looking at 79 girls and 158 boys ages 7 to 18, all diagnosed with autism, whose parents responded to questions from several standardized rating scales about their child's executive function and adaptive behavior. Read on...

  • Computer tool maps ridges on brain's bumpy surface

  • New software charts the crests of the folds that define the brain's surface, or cerebral cortex, in people with autism1.

    The cerebral cortex has distinctive crests and valleys, called gyri and sulci. These folds accommodate a large number of brain cells within the confines of the skull. Some studies suggest that people with autism have altered patterns of brain folding and unusually shaped sulci. But few studies have focused on gyri.

    The new tool uses data from magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans to depict gyri in a mesh-like form, dubbed a gyral net. Two software packages identify the gyri in the scans. An algorithm then removes some of the detail, leaving a mesh made up of lines, each of which represents a ridge. Read on...

  • Parents and Others Looking for Help!!!


  • I am looking for a 2-3 bedroom house (if possible), apartment or mobile home in North County for my sister, who is severely autistic and non-verbal, and will be in a supported living program (24-hour caretakers plus hopefully another similar roommate).

    The ideal house would be:
    --Anywhere in North County
    --Somewhat isolated so neighbors are not disturbed by her occasional screaming
    --Rustic or "fixer-upper" so we could fix up to our specifications and there would be less concern over possible damage
    --One of the bedrooms large enough for 2 beds
    --No carpet
    --Not depressing - possessing some sort of charm
    --Affordable (a relative term)

    Thank you everyone! Just putting it out there in case anyone knows of such a house!

    Daria 619-294-6577 (home), 619-788-2042 (cell) or doeringsx5@gmail.com



    My son is aging out of his school program (TERI - The Learning Academy) in May 2018, he will be 22, and I'd like to begin the search for an adult day program for him. Is there a list or directory that contains the programs available in north county ?
    Thanks,
    Maureen mtoms1983@sbcglobal.net



    I am a single mom of 8 years old boy with autism who is looking for part time job to help me to get through my graduate program for Clinical Counseling. I worked as ABA behavior therapist for about a year, have extensive experience as a care provider for children with special needs, trained in RDI as well. In addition, I worked as art instructor for 12 years teaching children, typical and with special needs. I am wondering if anyone may need part-time help with their children. I have my son 50 % of the time and My availability is every Monday, Tuesday and every other Friday, Saturday and Sunday at any time. I live in Carmel Valley/Del Mar and planning to stay here.
    My phone number is 858/342-3118
    Thank you so much,
    Yulia Serebryakova



    If you have a question or request for this newsletter group, please send your email request to ValeriesList@aol.com. People who can help you will email you directly with their responses.

  • San Diego Regional Center Regarding Respite Services ~ Changes in limits of respite care will be coming in January 1, 2018
  • sdrc

    This message is to inform our San Diego and Imperial counties' communities about an important change in the law (the repeal of Welfare and Institutions Code section 4686.5).

    Currently, regional centers cannot purchase more than 90 hours per quarter of in-home respite and cannot purchase more than 21 days of out-of-home respite for a family, unless an exemption is granted. Effective January 1, 2018, these limits on the purchase of respite services will no longer apply.

    Because of this change in the law, the San Diego Regional Center will revise its respite services purchase of service policies and they will be effective January 1, 2018.

    In-home respite services are intermittent or regularly scheduled temporary non-medical care and supervision provided in the family's own home and designed to relieve family members from the constantly demanding responsibility of caring for a client; assist family members in maintaining the client at home; provide appropriate care and supervision to protect the client's safety in the absence of family members; and, attend to the client's basic self-help needs and other activities of daily living, including interaction, socialization, and continuation of usual daily routines which would ordinarily be performed by family members.

    The planning team makes the decisions about respite services as a part of the Individual Program Plan discussions. If you are interested in respite services please contact your San Diego Regional Center service coordinator for more information. http://sdrc.org

  • Developmental DIR Autism Therapy in Your Home!!!
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    NOW IN SAN DIEGO!!! Why choose us?
    In a program such as ours the child learns to think reflectively and base behaviors on their own desires and feelings rather then on repetitiously learned non-reflective patterns of behavior. We work from a multi-displinary perspective considering functional language use, visual-spatial processing, auditory processing and motor function.

    Real Connections Child Development Institute
    415 North Highway 101 Suite C
    Solana Beach, CA 92075
    (858) 354-2006
    ilene@realconnectionsinstitute.com
    http://realconnectionsinstitute.com/blog1/services/

  • RDI Information Night at TAG in Mira Mesa
  • RDI is a developmental and cognitive based family focused intervention dedicated to treating the core deficits of autism spectrum disorders. Prior to beginning, families are extensively assessed and provided with specific tools and objectives to remediate (treat until they are no longer deficits) the core deficits of autism spectrum disorders. Click here for all the info!!!

    To RSVP call 858-680-2027 or email admin@tagforgrowth.com

    Therapeutic Approach to Growth Inc.
    9466 Black Mountain Road
    Suite 100
    San Diego, CA 92126
    http://tagforgrowth.com

  • Autism Speaks: San Diego Walk for Autism
  • The San Diego Walk is just a couple of weeks away and we're saving a spot for you. Click here to register today. Once you sign up, forward this email to your friends and family and invite them to join you. All are welcome at the Autism Speaks Walk. The more who FUNdraise, the greater our impact. Together, powered by love, we will enhance the lives of people with autism today, and create a spectrum of solutions for tomorrow.

    Event Details
    San Diego Walk
    Date: 09/30/2017
    Liberty Station at Point Loma


    Start a Team: Register as a Team Captain, then forward this email to your friends and family and invite them to join your team and fundraise.

    Join a Team: Choose this option to join a team that has already been created by a Team Captain.

    Register as an Individual: Save your place now. You can always join a team later. If you would like to join a team but can't find one to join, email us and we'll find a friendly team for you.

    Thank you for being an important part of the Autism Speaks community. We can't wait to see you on 9/30/17.

  • The ABCs of IEPs* (*Individualized Education Program)

  • Saturday, September 30, 2017 - 9 am - 2 pm (light lunch provided)

    Learn about the IEP process from the perspective of an administrator and a parent, including the components of an IEP, how to prepare for IEP meetings, rights and responsibilities, and how to create partnerships that work for yourself and your child.

    Read more

    Click here to register online

  • Back to School Special Pricing at MicroCurrent 4 Kids!!!
  • SEND YOUR KID BACK TO SCHOOL READY TO LEARN!!!

    10% Discount for New Clients -- Available to the first 10 clients to mention this ad!!!

    Two Locations to Serve you!!! In Kearny Mesa and Encinitas!! Call for all the info!!!!


    The Alternative, Safe and Effective Therapy Option!!!
    MicroCurrent4Kids is San Diego's premiere microcurrent therapy program for children, teens and adults with special needs. Our program is the BEST therapy for Autism and ADHD, as you will see by the rapid improvement in your child's skills and abilities, because of how well it promotes developmental growth and couples with ALL other therapies. (Inquire about other therapies also available!) THIS IS NOT ELECTRIC SHOCK THERAPY!!!

    858 367-9108
    info@microcurrent4kids.com
    http://www.microcurrent4kids.com

  • Sports 4 Exceptional Athletes September Newsletter
  • s4ea

    Click here to read their latest newsletter for all the info and upcoming events and activities!!!

  • NFAR GRANT PROGRAMS - Application Period Now Open!
  • Since 2005, NFAR has worked with educators and other local agencies and nonprofits to enhance educational, treatment, enrichment, and employment opportunities for those with autism across our community.

    Our Teachers Grants and Community Projects application period is now open.
    All applications are due on September 30.

    Funding for these programs is made possible by the annual Race for Autism.
    To date, NFAR has invested over $1.5 million in the development and enhancement of local autism programs and services.

  • Jeremiah's Ranch September Newsletter
  • jr

    Click here to read their latest newsletter for all the info about upcoming events and activities!!!

  • Love and Autism Conference in San Diego!
  • Love & Autism: A Conference with Heart held annually in San Diego, focuses on relationships - bridges lived experience, clinical practice & research. Click here to see the list of speakers!!!

    September 30 - October 1, 2017
    Liberty Station Conference Center
    2600 Laning Road
    San Diego, CA 92106
    info@loveandautism.com
    https://www.loveandautism.com

  • NFAR Men's Group - Sep 14, 2017
  • The Men's Group is for dads, step dads, and granddads helping to raise a child with autism. We offer dinner, guest speakers and a chance to network with other men in a relaxed setting.

    6:30 pm - 8:30 pm
    Giovanni's Italian Restaurant
    9353 Clairemont Mesa Blvd.
    San Diego, CA 92123


    Dinner: Pizza, Salad, Soda.
    Dinner is provided

    September Topic: City of San Diego Therapeutic Recreational Services

    Did you know that San Diego Parks & Rec offers a whole host of fun activities and programs for those with disabilities of all ages? Many of these are offered at your local Parks & Rec. and at affordable prices! Learn more about:

    • Therapeutic Recreational Services
    • Inclusion Aids
    • Camps and Speciality Programs
    • Annual dances and special events
    • New Programs
    Click here for all the info and to RSVP!!!

  • Dance for Teens and Adults with Special Needs
  • InnerDancer Performing Arts
    602-502-2743
    caroline@innerdancers.org
    http://www.innerdancers.org

  • BRAIN DEVELOPMENT IMAGING LABS - Recruiting Participants
  • If you are interested in participating in any of these studies, please call 619-594- 0176 or email BDIL@sdsu.edu.

  • Support & Information for Adults: SSI and IHSS Eligibility, Medi-Cal
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    Tuesday, September 12, 2017
    6:00 PM to 8:00 PM
    United Way Building
    4699 Murphy Canyon Rd, San Diego, CA


    Speakers:

    Nichole Mendoza, Esq., Lead Attorney for SSI, Legal Aid Society of San Diego

    Carol Neidenberg, Consumer Center for Health Education and Advocacy's Mental Health Program Manager, A Project of the Legal Aid Society of San Diego

    They will discuss the eligibility criteria for Supplemental Security Income and Social Security Disability Insurance for adults. This will include a breakdown of the five-step sequential evaluation SSA conducts at every stage of the eligibility process. The discussion will focus on proving Listing 12.10 for Autism Spectrum Disorders, the evidence needed to establish such a claim, and strategies to implement when dealing with SSA.

    They will also discuss the eligibility process for obtaining In-home Supportive Services (IHSS) in the context of an ASD case, and answer any questions the group may have.

    The Consumer Center, the health care team for Legal Aid, helps clients and family members obtain health coverage or help those navigate the eligibility process should individuals lose coverage. Information about public benefit programs including Medi-Cal, IHSS, Cal MediConnect, etc. will be discussed.

    The Consumer Center is the county-designated Patients' Rights Advocate and can describe some of the various mental health programs, as well as, the county's mental health grievance process.

    There will be an opportunity to network after the meeting. Light refreshments will be served. Please join us! Click here for all the info!!!

  • Coffee Talk
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    Wednesday, September 20, 2017
    9:00 AM to 11:00 AM
    Panera Bread
    2521 Palomar Airport Road, Carlsbad, CA


    Sit....Chat....Relax. This is an opportunity to meet up with others facing similar life challenges in a comfortable, relaxing environment.

    This Meetup is hosted by:

    Lynn Kirsch, M.A., CCC-SLP - Owner/Clinical Director of Kirsch Therapy, a pediatric speech, occupational and physical therapy clinic that provides services to children with autism and other speech and developmental disorders. She is the parent of two children and currently serves on the board of directors for the Autism Society San Diego.

    Michelle Wolfson, LMFT - Parent of three adults (one with Down syndrome and one with autism.) She maintains a professional counseling and special ed advocacy practice in Carlsbad for families of children or adults with special needs. She is on the Board of Directors for the Autism Society San Diego and is the current co-Chair of the NCCSE Community Advisory Committee.

    Hope to see you there! Click here for all the info!!!

  • ASD Mornings at theNAT


  • Please visit http://www.sdnhm.org/visit/accessibility/asd-mornings/ for more information.

  • Autism Accessibility Morning at the Fleet!


  • In February we began our, Autism Accessibility Mornings at the Fleet (http://rhfleet.org/events/autism-accessibility-mornings), program. This morning is dedicated to the ASD community to come and enjoy the Fleet in a quieter setting and catch an IMAX film! Our film showings are presented with raised house lights and a lowered soundtrack volume, to provide a more comforting environment. Our goal is to provide an enriching experience for the ASD community

  • Fall 2017 Therapeutic Recreation Services Calendar


  • Click here for all the info!!! Registration online or in our office.

  • San Diego Regional Center's Recreation Resource Page
  • sdrc


    Recreation is important in promoting inclusion and quality of life. Studies have shown that it increases self-esteem and confidence, leads to improved communication, social interaction, and friendship skills.

    The San Diego Regional Center supports clients having time to recreate and believes it is essential to a healthy and well-balanced life. Below are links to some popular recreation activities in the San Diego and Imperial Counties. However, SDRC does not endorse, nor provide funding for any recreation activity. SDRC is not liable for anything occurring while participating in any of the recreational activities. Click here for all the info!!!

  • Weight on Me

  • Our goal is to make durable weighted blankets with safe materials affordable for everyone.

    http://myblanketsheavy.com
    Contact Jill for all the info!!!

  • Join Our Study! Video Games to Train Attention and Eye Movement

  • Join our study at UCSD's Research on Autism and Development Lab ( http://radlab.ucsd.edu). We are currently recruiting participants for a study to measure the effects of training visual attention using video games. Click here to view the brochure!!!

  • Parents and Children Needed for Student Research

  • My name is Shamayne Brown and I am a doctoral student at Alliant International University. This study is examining the attention abilities of kids with ASD and their parents. I am recruiting families with a child with ASD as well as families with typically developing children.

    We are looking for boys, ages 8 to 16 years old, who have a diagnosis of ASD and their biological parents - both mother and father need to participate. We are also looking for boys, ages 8 to 16 years old, who are typically developing and both of their biological parents to serve as a control group.

    If you and your family are eligible for participation, you will be asked to come to a lab at the Neuroscience Institute at Alliant International University. You and your child's other parent will be asked to complete consent forms and questionnaires about your own behaviors; this should take you each about 25 minutes. You will also be given questionnaires about your child's behaviors. Only one parent needs to fill out these questionnaires and should take about 25 minutes complete. You, your child, and your child's other parent will complete a cognitive test, which will take about 30 minutes. Each of you will then play some games on a computer. This will take each person about 30 minutes. Your child's participation will take approximately one hour. Your participation and that of your child's other parent will take approximately one and a half to two hours.

    After your child completes his tasks, he will receive a $20 cash gift as an appreciation for his participation. Once you and your child's other parent have completed all tasks, you will each receive a $10 gift card as a token of appreciation for your participation. For further information, please contact Shamayne Brown at sbrown7@alliant.edu or 619-416-1799. Thank you for your time.

    *Approved by Alliant IRB
    IRB #1604025150

     
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    Disclaimer

    I never endorse anyone or anything. Opinions expressed in what I send out, may not be shared by me. Everything is for informational purposes only.
    People who "advertise" through this newsletter have never been checked out by me. Same goes for the "Sponsors". This includes professionals and even people who are interested in babysitting, etc. So, please take the time to thoroughly check out anyone and everyone who will be working with or caring for your child/adult. We are all sadly aware, through news stories and word of mouth, of people who prey upon special needs children and adults because of their extra vulnerability.

    Valerie Dodd-Saraf
    President, Foggy Coast Ventures, Inc.
    Owner/Editor ValeriesList.com

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