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Dos and Don'ts of Classroom Decorations

Voc Rehab Doubling Down On Transition-Age Youths

5 Assumptions to Avoid When Teaching Social Thinking & Related Social Skills

Spectrum is proud to debut the first-ever global map of autism prevalence.

Depression: Three new subtypes identified

Family and Others Looking for Help!!!

Opening Night Tickets! JK Rowling's The Crimes of Grindelwald

Are you prepared for your IEP meeting?

No Wait for RDI at Family Guidance

NFAR Mom's Group - Wed. Nov. 14

Cara Lucier & Associates

Target is Now Selling Affordable Weighted Blankets

Options Program at Cathedral Catholic High School

Club Beacons in Carlsbad - November 16th

Support & Information for Adults: Public Benefits Information - TONIGHT!

North County Breakfast Club-Hope for the Holidays event

Engage & Connect Program -- Next session starts November 29th!

Clinical Training: Apply for Spring 2019

ValeriesList is a FREE resource newsletter and Facebook Page for San Diego County and has been for over 18 years. No fees or membership are required to receive this info. An informed public makes better decisions for its' persons with Special Needs. Please share with friends, family, fellow professionals and clients!!! Click here to check out my FB page! Thank YOU!

What you put on your classroom walls can affect your students' ability to learn.

Heavily decorated classrooms can bombard students with too much visual information, interfering with their memory and ability to focus, a new study finds.

This is just the latest study to examine the relationship between classroom environment and students' executive functions, which include skills like memory, attention, and self-regulation. While teachers have good intentions when decorating, many classrooms end up being "sensory-rich" in a way that "could hamper children's learning gains rather than help," according to psychologists Pedro Rodrigues and Josefa Pandeirada, who coauthored the study. Read on...

Vocational rehabilitation agencies across the country say they're serving more students with disabilities thanks to a new federal mandate, but they're still falling short of fully meeting their obligations.

The vast majority of state vocational rehabilitation agencies indicate that they've seen an uptick in the number of students they have provided with workplace readiness training, work-based learning experiences, self-advocacy training and counseling related to job exploration or postsecondary education over the last four years.

That's according to a new report from the nonpartisan Government Accountability Office looking at what are known as pre-employment transition services. Read on...

The social mind is an information-processing machine and "data interpretation" is a huge part of that processing. Unlike facts and figures that may "compute" in neat and logical ways, deciphering and making sense of the clues and cues in any social environment is a many-layered, complex, and highly flexible thinking process. Often that thinking requires us to make assumptions and guesses. Unfortunately, when it comes to teaching social information to people with solid to strong language and academic learning skills, some of the assumptions we make may lead us astray.

The good news is that awareness is the first step in keeping our assumptions realistic and relevant to those we serve. Whether we are working with an individual as a parent, an educator, or a professional, to be effective we need to start by avoiding assumptions about what our students actually know when it comes to social information!

So many other assumptions we make can throw off our ability to provide timely and relevant information to help people learn to successfully interact and share space together. We've put together the top five assumptions we repeatedly notice among parents and professionals about individuals who have strong language skills and yet struggle with social issues. See if any of them hold a space in your social brain! Read on...

The interactive map provides a clear look at the distribution of studies on autism prevalence over time and space. It highlights the places for which prevalence data are available - or missing. We plan to fill in the gaps as the data become available.

The number of people diagnosed with autism worldwide has risen dramatically over the past few decades. Prevalence estimates in different countries vary widely, as these estimates depend in large part on how scientists collected the data.

You can filter the studies using various relevant criteria, download the data and analyze it yourself.

We invite you to explore the map, learn more about its creation, and let us know what you think. You can also share the map on social media, tagging @Spectrum on Twitter or Facebook. Follow us for map updates and more.

A new study now published in the journal Scientific Reports has identified three new subtypes of depression. The findings help explain why some types of depression do not respond well to medication.

According to recent estimates, depression affects over 300 million people worldwide, and at least 16 million people in the United States.

Over 60 percent of U.S. individuals living with depression have experienced severe impairment as a result, and up to 30 percent of people living with depression do not find relief in existing treatments.

Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are the most commonly prescribed drugs for depression. They work by boosting levels of the "happiness hormone" in the brain: serotonin.

New research may help explain why SSRIs are unable to fully tackle some types of depression. A team led by Prof. Kenji Doya, of the Neural Computation Unit at the Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology Graduate University (OIST) in Japan, has now identified three new subtypes of depression. Read on...

I am writing this ad for the amazing family of caregivers who have worked for us for the past six years, caring for my father until his death, and then my severely autistic, non-verbal sister and our mother, both, until they both recently passed away. The caretaker is a licensed CNA, super responsible, kind and personable. He is young and strong, and has experience working with the elderly, those with autism, the physically disabled, and those in a hospice type situation. He has an outstanding work ethic, and cared for our family members regularly during the night as well as the day. He is completely reliable in ordering and dispensing meds. He did extensive "diaper duty" and showering / bathing for incontinent family members with never any complaints. He has a wife who is as sweet as he is, and two young children, and they all lived in with first my father and then my mother (divorced). This would be optional, though it was a great thing, as his wife was the relief caretaker. I would be happy to talk on the phone or in person further about our experiences with this family, their compensation, or anything else. The caretaker has a car and valid driver's license, speaks good English, and is a recently naturalized US citizen. They are willing to relocate. Daria [email protected] or 619-788-2042

Does your child or young adult have IHSS hours? I have an amazing person who is working with my 22 year old daughter and is looking to take on new clients. She's been great at teaching life skills, cooking, hygiene and can also help with things like organizing schoolwork, mentoring etc. She is also available for work private pay as well. Please spread the word if you know anyone who needs this type of service for teens/young adults 😊Contact me for details Debra Berl 619 672-8893

My 16 year old son( with autism/intellectual disability/pica/anxiety/chronic constipation) has been having intermittent aggression since we relocated to Carlsbad 2 months ago came home from CAPS yesterday...can you recommend a person who we can hire to stay in our home for an extra layer of support in the early evening (5-8pm) during the "sundowner" time? This is the time that aggression may come from out of nowhere. I would need help getting him to his room without being assaulted, where he can be safe, getting him PRN medication, and allowing him to calm down there (without calling the PERT team or the police). Once we are certain that he is stabilized with the right dosage of medication, we will not need the same level of extra support. We can pay up to $20/hr. We are also in the process of getting IHSS for him, so in time we will have more resources available...

Please reply directly to my email address: [email protected]

We hired an advocate this summer for our middle schooler, but feel that it is a lot of money for what we are getting. We just would like someone who would answer questions we can have once in a while, but in an immediate way because sometimes it's urgent...does anyone know of someone/somewhere we can get those kind of services? Thank you!! [email protected]

If you have a question or request for this newsletter group, please send your email request to [email protected]. People who can help you will email you directly with their responses.

Attend the Special Needs Resource Foundation of San Diego's movie fundraiser Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald on Nov. 16 and have a chance to win fabulous prizes! Tickets at https://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/3582251

Prize list includes:

• A Fantastic Beasts Holiday Tree - Ornaments for the tree have been donated by local artists of all abilities
• Harry Potter 20 Years of Magic Artwork Signed byJim Kay, Brian Selznick, Mary Grand Pre and Kazu Kibuishi
• Tickets to Disneyland California
• A Dream Dinner Gift Basket
• 90-Day Car Wash Memberships from Soapy Joe's Car Wash
• The Marauder's Map Guide to Hogwarts & World of Harry Potter Trivial Pursuit
• Hogwarts Wall Banners & Mirror of Erised
• and more!

Come join us!
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 15
5PM - 7PM
LIBERTY STATION

Our second meeting will feature guest speaker Seth Schwartz from the Law Offices of Schwartz and Storey. Seth is a local special education attorney who will be here to discuss making the most of your IEP meetings, working with school districts and the power of a positive attitude. We can't wait to see you there! Click here to RSVP!!!

Banyon Tree
Learning Center - Point Loma
2820 Roosevelt Road, Suite 104
San Diego, CA 92106
858-367-5428

Relationship Development Intervention (RDI®)

Our primary approach for treatment of autism spectrum is a developmental program called Relationship Development Intervention (RDI®). RDI® is a unique treatment approach that empowers parents to guide their child to succeed in our dynamic world. Children who learn to actively engage with the support of their parents in safe but challenging learning opportunities develop a strong motivation to explore and expand their world, as well as develop competence and trust in themselves and their guides.

Why RDI®?
Foundations of the adult mind are developed in the first years of life through the "Guiding Relationship". From the middle of the first year of life, hour-by-hour, day-by-day, in every culture on earth, children interact with parents and other important adults in deceptively simple encounters, with a very serious underlying agenda; constructing the architecture of the child's mind and brain. Click here for all the info!!!

The Family Guidance and Therapy Center
Locations in Point Loma and Mira Mesa
619-600-0683
https://familyguidanceandtherapy.com

6:30 pm - 8:30 pm
**NEW LOCATION**Filippi's Pizza Grotto
5353 Kearny Villa Rd
San Diego, CA 92123

Dinner: Pizza, Salad.
Dinner is provided

These meetings are for Moms to come together in a fun and relaxed setting. The group will meet the 3rd Wednesday of the month for dinner and guest speakers. It's an opportunity to share resources, experiences and enjoy being with other moms of individuals with autism.

November Topic: Tips to Help Your Child Stay Safe, (bring your questions)

Over the past 30 years, GET SAFE has positively impacted the lives of more than 200,000 people of all ages and abilities by providing the violence prevention education and self-defense training that is critical to protecting the well-being of its students and to building safer, more inclusive communities.

Come learn more about ways to help empower and keep your loved one safe.

Guest Speaker: Stuart Haskin, Founder and Executive Director - Get Safe

Stuart works closely with law enforcement officers, military personnel, children, survivors of sexual assault, victims of domestic violence, and persons with disabilities. Stuart interacts with his students on the emotional, cognitive and physical levels combined with his trademark humor to create an empowering, life-changing shift in personal awareness and safety.

To learn more about Get Safe.

To RSVP and for directions.

At Cara Lucier & Associates we believe in the ability of every person to reach their potential. We believe that education is the key to opportunity. We advocate for the rights of individuals and their families:

• IEP team meetings
• Mediation
• Due Process Hearings and Appeals
• 504 Meetings and Appeals
• Regional Center Meetings and Appeals
• IHSS Appeals
• Civil Rights Litigation

The weighted blanket you've been wanting to try is finally available at an affordable price. Target is selling 12-pound weighted blankets this holiday season for only $70-most well-rated blankets sell for over $100. These quilted throws come in cream and gray. Click here for all the info!!!

The Options Program at Cathedral Catholic High School provides students with intellectual disabilities and/or delays an opportunity to become a part of the CCHS community. Students enrolled in the Options Program will become fully integrated as possible into the total life of the school community through participation in general education classes and campus activities with the support of peer mentors. Students will earn a Certificate of Completion upon their four years at CCHS. There is also support from a special education case manager who designs individualized curriculum for each student. Incoming Freshmen may apply.
https://www.cathedralcatholic.org/academics/special-education/options-program

Cathedral Catholic High School
5555 Del Mar Heights Road
San Diego, CA 92130

Beacons, Inc.
6150 Yarrow Street, Suite E
Carlsbad, CA 92011
[email protected]
760-448-6230
https://www.beaconsnorthcounty.com

Tuesday, November 13, 2018
6:00 PM to 8:00 PM
Autism Society of San Diego
4699 Murphy Canyon Road (United Way Building)
San Diego, CA 92123

This presentation will cover the basics of the various complex systems utilized by individuals with disabilities including SSI, SSA, 250% working Disabled, CalABLE, and several helpful resources. We will also discuss entitlements and services available to adults who are recipients of regional center services.

ABOUT OUR PRESENTER:
Melissa Hough has worked in the disability field in various capacities since 1995. She began working for Creative Support Alternatives in 2004, serving as Associate Director since 2014. She is passionate about utilizing person-centered planning tools to develop truly individualized services consistent with Creative Support Alternatives' beliefs and mission.
http://www.creativesupport.org/aboutus/team.html

Melissa received both her Bachelors degree in Vocational Education, Masters degree in Rehabilitation Counseling, and is currently pursuing her doctorate in Educational Leadership from San Diego State University. Melissa serves on the Cal-TASH Board, is a founding member of the local San Diego Micro-Business Coalition, and maintains membership in the California Supported Living Network, San Diego Supported Living Vendor group, Cal-TASH, and APSE. She also teaches DSPS Continuing Education classes through a local community college.

There will be an opportunity for networking and questions and answers.
Light refreshments will be served.
We hope you will join us!
https://www.meetup.com/autismsocietysandiego/events/255923225/

November 15th at 10 AM - 12 PM
Swami's Cafe Vista
20 Main St #100
Vista, California 92083

The holiday season is upon us. Autism can sometimes make fun gatherings stressful and challenging for your loved one with autism and the whole family. Join TACA Mentor Malinda Cook and Co-Coordinator Vanessa Surprise and leave with a plan and ideas to make this your best holiday season yet! We will have sheets to help you make shopping lists, magnets to help motivate (and give away for gifts) and of course friendship and support.
https://www.facebook.com/events/204016730384681/

Families of young children with autism, ages 2 - 8, and their siblings are invited to join us for our next session of the "Engage & Connect".

The program is designed to bring parents, siblings, and children with ASD together, learn strategies from our professional team, and most of all - have fun!

Play activities have been designed to encourage communication and social skills development.

The Engage & Connect Program is held once a week for 4-weeks at Kid Ventures indoor recreational play center in 4S Ranch on Thursdays from 5:15 - 6:30 pm starting November 29th.

To learn more or to register, please contact NFAR at 858-679-8800. Spots fill quickly-sign up for the next session today!

Want to learn hands-on from Michelle Garcia Winner and other world-renowned members of our clinical team? Apply for Social Thinking's three-day intensive Clinical Training Program to get ground-floor, top-notch training in the Social Thinking Methodology. Observe and discuss a live assessment using the Social Thinking Informal Dynamic Assessment, observe live Social Thinking group and individual treatment sessions with clients of different ages, and discuss treatment strategies for the different levels of the social mind. We're sold out for 2018, apply to secure your seat for spring 2019 before it's gone!
Click here for all the info and to apply!!!