Join ASCF via Zoom for our ongoing discussion group on the book: Uniquely Human, a Different Way of Looking at Autism (behaviors) by Barry M. Prizant, PhD. We meet on Sunday, September 17 at 6:30 pm and/or Monday, September 18 at 6:30 pm. Please register by email to: norma@ascfamily.org or julie@ascfamily.org. or phone 973 728 8744 for the link. Participants must register. You can attend both sessions if you prefer. See you there,

How resetting expectations and planning ahead can help children with learning challenges

The first day of a new school year always feels like a new start. New school supplies, new classes, new teachers, new hopes and — for many kids — new struggles.

Turning things around isn’t easy, but it can be done. And the rewards last long after school’s out. The problems caused by ADHD and learning disabilities can leave kids feeling confused and overwhelmed. All the other kids are done! Why is this taking me so long?

Educate your child about their learning difference. Understanding how it affects them will make it easier prepare for problems before they come up. For example: You know your child’s ADHD makes it hard to stay organized. So you work together to find (and practice) strategies that help them stay on track. That way they’ll have the skills they need before school even starts.

Setbacks happen, but they don’t have to be the end of the world. Planning ahead can help. Agree on what your child will do if they miss an assignment or fail a test, like talking to the teacher about extra credit.

Remember, if something does go wrong kids may feel frustrated, sad or worried about disappointing you. Be kind and praise kids when they’re honest about problems at school. Foe example: “I’m so glad you told me your paper is late! I know you were worried about it. How can I help?” It’s also important to make sure your child has time to just relax and participate in things they enjoy. A little success goes a long way towards building (and protecting) confidence.

At home, be thoughtful when talking to kids about school. Questions that seem simple, like “Did you turn in your report?” or “How did the math test go?” can be upsetting to kids. If your child seems upset, take their feelings seriously: “I know this isn’t easy to talk about — how can I help?”

Avoid surprise school conversations. Instead, set up a regular time to talk and stick to it. When kids know what to expect, your talks will be calmer and less stressful. And you’ll be able to enjoy family time even when things aren’t going great in class.

Let kids take the lead whenever possible. This can be as small as getting their backpack ready the night before, or as big as asking a teacher for help. Giving kids control (within reason) sends the message that you have confidence in their abilities.

Article by Rae Jacobson, For Full Article in English go to

https://childmind.org/article/back-to-school-tips-for-kids-who-are-struggling/

For article in Spanish go to

https://childmind.org/es/articulo/consejos-para-el-regreso-a-clases-de-ninos-con-dificultades/

COMMUNITY EVENT

Almond Branch is hosting the bestselling author William Paul Young and singer/songwriter Jason Upton on September 22-24 to share a message of hope, healing, and restoration at the Almond Branch on 184 Marshall Hill Rd in West Milford. More information is available at www.almondbranch.church/conference. No registration is required if you are only coming on Friday, September 22. Starts at 7pm).

On Saturday September 10 at 6:30 pm they will also be having a Movie Night showcasing the movie The Shack. This will coincide with a special "Kids Night Out" at Shiloh from 6pm to 9pm while parents can come to the church and watch the film. The cost is $5 per child. More info available at www.almondbranch.church/events-calendar.

(or this link: (or this link: https://shorturl.at/bDEZ6)

The 39th Annual NJSSAN Fall Conference

Oct 14, 2023 9:30 AM  

 Each year, the New Jersey Self-Advocacy Project (NJSAP) and the New Jersey Statewide Self-Advocacy Network (NJSSAN) work together to host the annual Fall Conference. The virtual event is an opportunity for Disability Advocates to network, learn about current advocacy issues, and learn from expert Self-Advocates. Please register

https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZEpf-6rpzIjH9GBmDB6C1JsSlpsk7b5XQZf#/registration

Save the Date: 

Transition Conference

Saturday afternoon ,September 23, 2023.

ASCF is proud to co-sponsor this in person event with St. Mary's Special Needs Ministry for parents of children with special needs and for professionals.

The location is Carnevale Center (across from the Police Station), 10 Lenox Avenue, Pompton Lakes NJ 07442. 

Come join us to hear from experts discussing Transition to high school as well as Transition after high school to adult life. This free mini conference is from 12:30 pm-5 pm. More info will be available soon. Registration is required. 

Call 973-728-8744, or e -mailing julie@ascfamily.org