Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD): How to Make Sense of Challenging Behaviors

Hosted by Wayside Youth & Family Support Network
Wednesday, 1/17/18
9:00am-12:00pm
Plymouth Church
87 Edgell Road
Framingham, MA

This presentation will describe the process of diagnostic clarification for youth with an Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)/neurodevelopmental disorder and co-occurring mental health diagnosis within the context of an interdisciplinary diagnostic team. Learn more and register here.

iCan Bike Camp

Co-Hosted By: Bellingham SEPAC & Hopedale SEPAC
Program Provided By: iCan Shine
June 25-29, 2018
Bellingham High School
60 Blackstone Street
Bellingham, MA

A large majority of people with disabilities never have the experience of independently riding a conventional two-wheel bicycle during their lifetime. Research shows that over 80% of people with autism and 90% of people with down syndrome never experience this thrill. Learn more about this program and register here.

Sensory-Friendly Performance of The Nutcracker

Hosted by Commonwealth Ballet & Autism Alliance of Metrowest
Saturday, 11/25/17
6:00-8:00pm
Eleanor Welch Casey Theatre
Regis College
235 Wellesley Street
Weston, MA

This is the second year that the Commonwealth Ballet company is hosting this special performance. Last year’s performance was a huge success and the performers are committed to making this show accessible for all. In this relaxed and welcoming setting the theatre lights will be left on low, the music volume will be turned down, and some of the action on stage will be less intense. There will be a “quiet zone” if anyone needs to relax for a few minutes. View the online social story to help prepare for the evening and purchase tickets here.

A Full Life Ahead: The Road Forward “DDS and Chapter 688 Transitional Services for Massachusetts Families”

Presented by Massachusetts Families Organizing for Change and Advocates Family Services
Thursday, 10/26/17
6:30-8:30pm
Advocates Main Office
1881 Worcester Road
Framingham, MA

A Full Life Ahead is a workshop series offered by Massachusetts Families Organizing for Change (MFOFC) for parents and guardians of young adults with a disability. The series focuses on transition, employment, housing, friendships and other topics that will lead to interdependent, full lives. Advocates is proud to partner with MFOFC to offer workshops in the Metro Boston/MetroWest region.

The current number of young adults turning 22 eligible for Department of Developmental Services (DDS) is growing. Many of those are identified as needing community based residential services. Come learn about T22 transitional services, how state dollars are allocated and the process to access these supports. Register here.

Connected: The Impact of Social Media on Children’s Friendships and Emotional Lives

Hosted by Wayside Youth & Family Support Network
Monday, 11/13/17
6:00-8:30pm
Costin Room, Framingham Public Library
49 Lexington Street
Framingham, MA

Parents and caregivers of children and teens share a common concern about how social media use impacts children’s emotional development, their safety and their friendships. How do you make sure your children have the tools they need to navigate the social media world wisely? Join Dr. Elizabeth Englander, professor at Bridgewater State University, for a free presentation where you will learn practical and concrete ways to help your children foster a healthy life with social media. Learn how to have the conversations you need to teach your children how to stay safe online and how to maintain positive friendships. You don’t need to be a technology expert to be in control of the devices and applications your children use. A light dinner will be served. Register here.

Executive Function and Emotion: Promoting Flexible Thinking & Reducing Anxiety in School

Hosted by The Research Institute for Learning and Development
Friday, 10/27/17
8:30am-3:30pm
Museum of our National Heritage
33 Marrett Road
Lexington, MA

Research ILD’s 8th Annual Executive Function Conference is for teachers, learning specialists, administrators, and parents. Learn about the critical importance of executive function and flexible thinking for academic success as well as techniques for reducing the impact of stress and anxiety on students. Register and learn more here.

National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Education Course

Hosted by NAMI Newton/Wellesley
Wednesdays 10/4/17-11/8/17
6:30-9:30pm
Wellesley, MA

NAMI Basics is a six-week education program for parents and caregivers of children and adolescents living with emotional and behavioral issues. NAMI Basics is taught by understanding teachers who are parents or caregivers of children with similar issues. Participants will learn communication tips, how to problem-solve, and focus on skills to help cope with the emotional impact of caring for challenging children. Participants will also learn more about the IEP process, insurance, benefits, diagnoses and treatment. Email NAMI Basics to register or obtain additional information.

Wayside Youth & Family Support Network’s 2017-18 Training Institute

Hosted by Wayside Youth & Family Support Network
Framingham, MA

Wayside Youth and Family Support Network is a teaching and training facility. They offer training opportunities for visiting professionals, families and caregivers in order to enhance the delivery of mental health services to their clients, families and communities. Training Institute topics for 2017-18 include Effective Behavioral Approaches for Working with Youth on the Spectrum, Fun and Creative Interventions for Children, and many more. View complete details here.

Therapro Saturday Seminar Series

Hosted by Therapro
225 Arlington Street
Framingham, MA

Therapro hosts free Saturday morning seminars on popular topics for children with sensory, PT, OT, and speech/communication challenges. Peruse their future and past events, some of which have video clips or ancillary presentation materials. Learn more and register here.