Strong Families. Strong Futures. | |
|
Greetings to our VFN Family and Friends.
As Vermont Family Network approaches the close of another year, I want to take a moment to reflect on remarkable impact VFN has had supporting Vermont families and the strength of our wonderful community.
2024 has been a year of commitment to the community VFN serves. Together, the VFN team has expanded its programs, enhanced our outreach efforts, and forged new partnerships that will shape the future of our mission. These accomplishments wouldn’t have been possible without the dedication and hard work of our incredible staff, volunteers, donors, and supporters.
Highlights of this year have been the successes of our Family Support Consultants, the Sibshops programming, and our Puppets in Education program. Not only have their good work impacted the lives of 1,085 children, 164 adults, and over 1000 families but has also sparked conversations about the importance of ensuring the voices of families raising children who have disabilities be heard. I am incredibly proud of what VFN has achieved, and VFN is already looking ahead to how we can build on this success serving more Vermont families.
We have also been mindful of the challenges that continue to impact our work. From economic shifts to the ongoing effects of changing federal and state administrations, these complications have reinforced our commitment to staying adaptable and responsive to the needs of our community. Through collaboration and resilience, VFN has weathered these storms and is ready to take on what lies ahead.
As we move into 2025, I am excited about the new opportunities that will unfold. VFN has extremely dedicated staff committed to supporting our Vermont families as they navigate the complexities raising children with disabilities and medical health needs. VFN continuously collaborates with partners to ensure we are reaching those who need us most.
None of this would be possible without your support. Whether you’ve volunteered your time, contributed financially, or simply spread the word about our work, you’ve played an essential role in our success. Together, we are making a lasting impact, and I am deeply grateful for your ongoing commitment.
In closing, I want to express my sincere thanks for your dedication and partnership. I look forward to continuing this journey with all of you in the coming year. Let’s continue to provide the tools and support Vermont families need to be successful, making 2025 another year of meaningful and impactful work.
Wishing you all the very best as we finish out the year.
From the heart,
Michelle Kessler
Interim Executive Director
| |
|
Save the Date - April 8, 2025
VFN Annual Conference
| |
|
Our 2025 Annual Conference "Navigating Transition: Empowering Journeys of Change"
will be held on April 8, 2025 at the University of Vermont
Dudley H. Davis Center.
This year's conference will focus on the intersections of education and health for children/youth with disabilities or special health needs. Health and educational professionals will collaborate with families and youth to examine challenges during critical transitions throughout a child's developmental journey. This conference promises to equip attendees with practical knowledge and essential tools through expert speakers, interactive workshops, and invaluable networking opportunities. Participants will engage in collaborative activities to enhance their understanding of how to effectively support children at different stages of life. The VFN conference aims to empower families and children/youth with disabilities or special health needs as they navigate their individual paths toward a brighter future. Stay tuned for details!
| |
|
VFN is Hiring!
Join our Family Support team
| |
|
Transition for Youth with
Mental Health Challenges
| |
|
Your high school child with a mental health diagnosis may face different challenges with transitioning out of school into adult life. Transition planning should start early, before the age of 16, when transition planning is required in the special education process. Teaching a youth about self-determination and self-advocacy can be especially important. Read about these resources that address the unique challenges for students with mental illness and disability.
For more information on transitioning to adult life, call VFN Family Support at 802-876-5315 or check out our Transition Toolkit for Youth with Disabilities.
| |
|
We need you!
If you have a few hours here or there every few months that you can lend an ear to another parent via phone, text or email who is going through a similar situation, please consider volunteering as a trained support parent in Vermont Family Network’s Parent Match Program.
We have a particular need for parents of young children 2-8 years of age with an autism diagnosis. If you are at least a year out from receiving your child’s autism diagnosis, please consider supporting another parent. Support parents can decide when and if they are free to support another parent at any time.
Here is what parents say about being matched with another parent:
- “I felt lost and overwhelmed, it really helped to talk to another parent who already went through what I am experiencing.”
- "I felt hope that I would learn how to navigate my daughter’s diagnosis and felt less alone.”
- “It was a relief to talk with someone who got it and we could share stories without feeling pitied.”
The Support Parent Training is a two-part training. The first part is self-guided that takes about two hours at your own pace and convenience and the second is a two-hour virtual training with other parents. Support parents’ biggest strength is listening with compassion. Support parents give that parent-to-parent experience, someone who has walked in their shoes and is not expected to be an expert. Please consider volunteering as a trained support parent.
Our next scheduled Support Parent Trainings are:
January 21st 6-8pm on Zoom
January 23rd 12-2pm on Zoom
Your first step is to complete the Support Parent Volunteer Application!
If you are curious about being trained as a support parent and would like to speak with someone before completing the application, please email marie.fetterhoff@vtfn.org.
| |
|
Through active participation in the Family Faculty Program, families have the opportunity to share their personal experiences and stories. By doing so, they can offer valuable insights and perspectives to future health and education providers across the state. This engagement serves to enhance the mutual understanding between providers and families, fostering a meaningful dialogue centered around family-focused care.
To learn more or become a Family Faculty Member contact: ashley.michaud@vtfn.org and donia.shirley@vtfn.org.
| |
|
Functional Behavioral Assessments and
Behavior Intervention Plans
| |
|
When a child’s behavior interferes with their ability to learn, the school may use a functional behavioral assessment (FBA). The FBA looks for the reasons underlying a child’s behavior and helps the IEP team design a Behavior Intervention Plan (BIP) tailored to your child’s needs. A BIP should include strategies to support positive behavior and reduce negative behaviors. It may involve changes in your child’s surroundings, teaching new skills, and providing positive feedback/rewards. Read the latest guidance from the U.S. Department of Education: Using Functional Behavioral Assessments to Create Supportive Learning Environments.
If you have any questions about your child’s behavior at school, or how an FBA/BIP can be incorporated in your child’s IEP or Section 504 plan, please contact the VFN helpline at 802-876-5315 or info@vtfn.org.
| |
Happy Holidays from the Puppets | |
|
It seems hard to believe that we’re winding down 2024 already. This year has been a year of firsts and milestones. And we continue to be grateful for each and every one of them!
- For the first time since 2009, we performed 171 shows during the 2023-2024 school year.
- For the 2024-2025 school year, we debuted our new Friendship script.
- We debuted our Puppetpalooza-style workshops, to great enthusiasm.
- We spent the month of June performing in Community Libraries thanks to the Department of Mental Health
As the year comes to a close, we are reminded that we could not do what we do without your support. Every school we visit, every child we reach, is because of you and your generous support. We could not do it without you! So thank you, each and every one of you, for supporting and uplifting the voices of children in your family, community, and schools.
If your school would like us to perform and you are able to pay for a day of shows, or if you would like to fund a day of programming at a local school, please reach out to Karen at karen.sharpwolf@vtfn.org to discuss your options.
| |
|
Registration is ongoing for our 2024-25 Sibshops Program where we have increased capacity to serve siblings with a brother or sister with a disability or special health need.
Sibshops is a national program open to children aged 8+ who are siblings of brothers and sisters with disabilities and special health needs. All Sibshops are on Saturdays from 1:00 – 3:00 p.m. unless otherwise noted at various locations in Chittenden County. Each Sibshop is facilitated by trained Sibshops Staff, which includes a fun activity, a snack, and a facilitated Sibchat. Every Sibchat has a theme that will allow participants to connect with what it means to be a “sib.” The $10 Sibshops fee covers all food and activities.
Announcing new Tweens and Teens Sibshops!!!
New in 2024-25 is a Sibshops dedicated to 11–13-year-olds! Tweens and Teens Sibshops will be offered two more times this school year: January 18th and April 5th. All sessions will be held at St. Marks Church, 1251 North Avenue, Burlington, from 1:00 - 3:00 p.m. in the bowling alley and game room. Tweens and teens will not join younger siblings ages 8-10 for their activities (except for our end-of-the-year celebration at Oakledge).
Please complete the 2024-25 Sibshops Registration Form on our Get Support page and send your check to VFN to register your child for any/all of this year’s Sibshops activities. Scholarships are available. Please email info@vtfn.org with any questions.
| |
|
Making Winter Cozier for Your Family
Winter brings both opportunities and challenges for families with children who have disabilities or special health needs. With a little planning and creativity, you can make the season warm, enjoyable, and health-conscious for everyone. Here are some ideas to help you create a cozy winter experience:
Sensory-Friendly Winter Play
Set the stage for a calming, cozy winter atmosphere in your home by engaging multiple senses. Soft, battery-operated candles can create a peaceful, ambient glow, while gentle winter-themed music can help set the mood. Weighted blankets are a great option for providing soothing, deep pressure and extra warmth during colder months.
Adaptive Winter Traditions
Everyone should be able to enjoy the magic of the season, regardless of their sensitivities. For those who are sensitive to the cold, try indoor “snow” activities, such as playing with kinetic sand or cotton balls. If traditional winter crafts seem overwhelming, try simplifying the process with fewer tools or creating a new family tradition, such as sharing warm drinks that cater to everyone’s dietary preferences and restrictions.
Winter Health Management
The winter months can disrupt routines, but flexibility is key when managing health needs. Before harsh weather arrives, make sure you’re stocked up on necessary medical supplies. If outdoor activities are off the table, consider indoor alternatives to keep everyone moving and engaged. Remember, winter can be busy, so make sure to prioritize rest and recovery—taking time for healing is essential for maintaining well-being.
Community Connection
Cold weather may limit outdoor gatherings, but you can still stay connected. Virtual meetups, like group chats or online support groups, provide valuable ways to maintain social connections and share experiences with other families facing similar challenges. Remember, you’re not alone in navigating the winter season—we’re here to support you.
Winter doesn’t have to look the same for everyone. Use this time to create traditions and routines that work best for your unique family. Whether it's a new winter craft, an indoor game, or a special holiday treat, make the season meaningful in a way that suits the needs of your extraordinary family.
| |
Upcoming Events - Register today! | |
|
Free Online Workshops
January 23, 2025 at 10:00 a.m. "The Journey to Employment and Independent Living: How can CAP Help?"
This workshop is designed to provide parents, advocates, educators, and others with an opportunity to learn more about how to support youth with disabilities as they make the transition from school to employment and independent living. We will discuss the laws, programs, and services available to support their transition and how the Client Assistance Program (CAP) can help in that journey.
Presenter: Sherrie Brunelle - Paralegal at Vermont Legal Aid - Disability Law Project
January 28, 2025 at 1:00 p.m. "The New Adverse Effect Rule"
This session will review the State’s new Adverse Effect rule and its impact on eligibility evaluations for disability identification, as well as the provision of special education and related services.
Presenter: Ernie Wheeler - Educational Consultant at the Vermont Agency of Education
February 6 at 10:00 a.m. "Navigating Dispute Resolution in Special Education"
This joint VFN & Disability Law Project (DLP) workshop is designed to empower parents with the knowledge and tools needed to navigate disagreements within the special education process. Families will learn about their rights under IDEA (Individuals with Disabilities Education Act), explore effective communication strategies, and understand key dispute resolution options including mediation, administrative complaints, and due process hearings.
Presenters: Cammie Naylor, MSW, Esq. - Staff Attorney with Disability Law Project at Vermont Legal Aid, Inc. and Karen Price - VFN Co-Director of Family Support - Education
February 13 at 10:00 a.m. "Demystifying Disabled Children’s Home Care (Katie Beckett)"
This webinar will dive into Disabled Children’s Home Care (DCHC) which is sometimes referred to as Katie Beckett. DCHC allows children and youth under 19 with long-term disability or complex needs to qualify for Medicaid regardless of family income. In the presentation, we will provide an overview of the program, eligibility, application process, and the resources to help along the way. This presentation may be helpful to those that would like a refresh on some of the program details and changes in the recent years.
Presenter: Kelsey Naro - Health Systems Coordinator with Children with Special Health Care Needs at the Vermont Department of Health.
Postponed - new date TBD for "Digital Wellness Series - Workshop 3: Digital Wellness for Families"
"Empowering Families in the Online World" is an online empowerment series presented by Grow Digital Skills. In this third workshop we will be sharing information on "Digital Wellness for Families" which includes: Balancing screen time with offline activities; Setting up tech-free zones and times at home; Encouraging positive online interactions
Presenter: Emmy Hilliard - VFN Co-Director of Family Support - Health and Grow Digital Skills Coordinator
Our workshops are online using the Zoom meeting platform.
If you are unable to attend the live presentation, you can still register and we’ll send you a link to the recording of the workshop which you can watch on your own time, unless otherwise noted. We appreciate when you register for our workshops as we need that data for our grant reporting.
Registrations are also posted under Upcoming Events on the landing page of our website. In case you missed our last series of workshops, you can find a full list on our VFN website. Check in regularly as we add more workshops to our schedule!
We save workshops on our website and YouTube channel.
| |
VFN Workshop Topics/Speakers Survey
We want to hear your ideas for our upcoming online workshops. What topics interest you? Are there presenters you would recommend?
Let us know your thoughts.
| |
Contact Us. We Will Listen! | |
Helping Vermont Families thrive for more than 30 years | | |
|  |
Office
600 Blair Park Rd, Ste 240,
Williston, VT 05495
| | | | |
