February 2024 newsletter

Dear Families and Friends,

We hope every one is doing well and off to a great new year. Participate in some of the activities we have shared in this newsletter. Please remember we are here for you.

Be safe and warm

ASCF staff

ASCF Holiday Party Great Success

Families reported they had a great time at our Holiday party on Dec 2 in West Milford. The youngsters made an ornament to bring home and sang holiday songs. Of course the hit was Santa who read them a story and gave each of the children a special gift. Moms and dads also went home with little gifts.

ASCF Virtual Training

Basic Rights in Special Education

Monday, February 26, 2024

7:00 pm

Discussion for all families who have a child with very special needs and with information on how to navigate the Special Education Process in school. Good for new parents starting their special education journey with their child as well as a refresher training for others.

Registration: info@ascfamily.org or call 973-728-8744 and leave a message with your name and phone number.

ARC Family Institute Trainings

College Options for Students with IDD

Jan 31, 2024

College can be a great option for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD). A growing number of programs offer varied opportunities to learn academic, career and independent living skills as they prepare for employment. Join us as we discuss different programs offered in New Jersey and possible ways to pay for college. Additionally, we will discuss how to write IEP goals for post-secondary options when working with the Child Study Team.

https://bit.ly/collegeoptionsidd

Navigating the System: What Parents Need to Know

February 27 2024

This presentation will offer an overview of the different state services that are available here in New Jersey for Children and Adults with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities

· Under 21

· Over 21

· Transition from children’s system of care to division of developmental disabilities

https://bit.ly/whatparentsneed

My Student Just Turned 18- What Do I Need to Do?

March 18, 2024

This presentation will offer an overview of what a family needs to do when their student turns 18.

https://bit.ly/studentturning18

SPAN Virtual Trainings

NJ Transition-Related Resources & Online Events

Student Led IEPs

Thursday, January 25, 2024, 7:00 - 8:00 PM

When students are involved in their IEP meetings they engage in self determination and can practice decision-making skills.

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/student-led-ieps-a-path-to-success-registration-699721675367

Look to the Future: Transition from school to adult life

This workshop will provide information for you and your student on the transition from school to adult life.

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/look-to-the-future-transition-from-school-to-adult-life-registration-699681976627

TRANSITION FAIR

SPECIAL NEEDS RESOURCE FAIR

MENDING ARTS

You Are Invited to ASCF 's Virtual Book Club

The Rosie Project by Graeme Simsion

The Rosie Project is a moving and hilarious novel for anyone who has ever tenaciously gone after life or love in the face of overwhelming challenges. An international sensation, this hilarious, feel-good novel is narrated by an oddly charming and socially challenged genetics professor on an unusual quest: to find out if he is capable of true love. We meet every Tuesday:

January 30, 2024 at 7 pm

February 6, 13, 20 & 27th at 7 pm

Free digital copy is available, just e mail: info@ascfamily

Great article to help kids make friends

Kids Who Need a Little Help to Make Friends

from ChildMind,org

What parents can do when kids struggle with social skills

Clinical Experts: Jamie Howard, PhD , Mary Rooney, PhD , Rachel Busman, PsyD, ABPP

What You'll Learn

Why is it hard for some kids to make friends?

Can parents help kids make friends?

What are social skills and social scripts?

Quick Read

Friendships are important to children. If your kid is having a hard time fitting in, there are ways you can help your child make friends.

Social skills don’t come naturally to all kids, especially those with ADHD. Impulsive and hyperactive children often act in ways that make it hard to have friends. They can have trouble taking turns and controlling their anger when they don’t get their way. Inattentive kids may act flighty or not know how to join in.

Clinical Experts: Jamie Howard, PhD , Mary Rooney, PhD , Rachel Busman, PsyD, ABPP

Full article, 6 min read

https://childmind.org/article/kids-who-need-a-little-help-to-make-friends/

When Parents Collect Social Security

How Parents' Social Security Benefits Impact Adult Children with IDD

Tuesday, January 30, 2024

1:00 pm - 2:00 pm

Are you planning to collect your Social Security benefits and wondering how this will affect your adult child with disabilities? Questions and concerns often arise when parents are planning to collect their own Social Security and they have a son/daughter with disabilities who receives SSI and Medicaid. This presentation will discuss how to navigate those changes that may affect your adult child as you consider retirement.

https://register.gotowebinar.com/register/709486702426359126

BODIES IN MOTION