Parents who are informed are able to make the best choices for their children.

This blog was created to be a source of information about events in the Western Washington State area for parents and educators of children with special needs and learning challenges.
If you have an event that is not listed here please e-mail us complete information.

Friday, September 27, 2013

Creating Calm Relationship with your Children

Parent to Parent Presents:
Creating Calm Relationship with your Children
2 Saturdays
September 28 &
October 12, 2013
9 a.m. – 1 p.m.
 
The Arc of King County
233 6th Ave N, Seattle 98109
 
Saturday Sept 28th 9:00-1:00 Collaborative Beginners
$45, includes materials and
e-mail consultation
Additional family member sharing materials, $30
 
Saturday Oct 12,  9:00-1:00 Advanced Collaboration
 $45, includes materials and
e-mail consultation
Additional family member sharing materials, $30
 
BOTH classes for $80, $50 for second family member
 
Space is limited Register by September  25
 
arcofkingcounty.org
 
 Parenting can be difficult in the best of circumstances, and children who experience melt downs and tantrums, or who withdraw or put on the brakes can provide additional challenges. Even without melt downs, homework refusal and difficulties around meal time and transitions can prove to be daunting parenting challenges. Parents can learn Collaborative Problem Solving skills, new communication methods and more at this upcoming workshop, held two Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., Sept. 28 and Oct.  12, 2013.

Sunday, August 25, 2013

Benefits of Music Thearpy

Emily Murer, Neurologic Music Therapist

 


Monday, Sept 9th @ 6:30pm - Parkland/Spanaway

Thursday, Sept 12th @ 6pm - Downtown Tacoma


For meeting locations/maps, to register for childcare, etc., please visit our Events page.

Thursday, July 18, 2013

Parent as Advocates for Dyslexic Children


How Parents Can Join Forces to Become Better Advocates for their Dyslexic Children



Join us for a free online panel conversation with three moms
who have seen it all ...  


 

For parents seeking help and accommodations for their children with dyslexia, navigating the education system can be a challenging and often isolating experience.  The good news is that thousands of parents are discovering that they are not alone.

 

In this free webinar, you'll join in engaging conversation with experienced moms Deborah Lynam, Liz Barnes and Kathy Stratton - all parents and co-founders of the fast-growing Decoding Dyslexia movement. As Deborah, Liz and Kathy share their amazing personal stories, you'll gain insights into

  • How to become a persuasive and courageous advocate for your child;
  • The stunning array of misconceptions about dyslexia that pervade
    school systems;
  • Ways to thoroughly educate yourself about your child's rights;
  • Strategies to forge agreements with teachers and administrators;
  • Tips to stay strong for the long haul.

Our speakers will also highlight the power of networking and communication - sharing an inside look at how Decoding Dyslexia is becoming a national force for parental advocacy and systemic change.

 

To sign up go to: https://www4.gotomeeting.com/register/722959055

Thursday, June 20, 2013

Special Ed Law and Advocacy Training


  • Tests & Measurements to measure progress & regression

  • SMART IEPs

  • Introduction to tactics & strategies for effective advocacy

  • Requirements in No Child Left Behind  

Monday, June 10, 2013

New Kids Gluten Free Support Group

Gig Harbor Gluten Free is launching a new kids group called Gig Harbor Gluten Free 4 Kids.
July 16 th is the formal launch.  It is for kids 5 and up.  They will
meet the same night as the adult group but in a differen room.  The lst night will be super
special with goodie bags and all.  Their meeting will feature talks that
help them deal with their struggles living with food allergies. 

Please RSVP
by email if your child plans to attend (GHGlutenFree@gmail.com)

Gig Harbor Gluten Free Meets the third Tuesday of every month at Harbor Place in Gig Harbor. 

Thanks,Gay McCrayGig Harbor Gluten FreeConnect with us on Facebook   

Wednesday, May 15, 2013

Bal-A-Vis-X Workshop in Tumwater, WA

Bal-A-Vis-X Workshop
with Bill Hubert
 
October 11-12
 
8:30 am - 6 pm
(lunch provided)
 
 
Level 1 and 2
 
Serendipity Academy
4315 Tumwater Valley Drive
Tumwater, WA 98501

Cost $250

Registration deadline Aug. 1, 2013

Contact Emily Walsh for registration: walsheg@comcast.net

For more information on Bal-A-Vis-X go to www.bal-a-vis.x.com


Monday, May 13, 2013

IGNITE! Summer Enrichment Classes in Gig Harbor, WA


IGNITE! Your Child's Love of Learning!





IGNITE! Summer Enrichment Classes are innovative summer enrichment
programs brought to you by Hands On Learning Solutions in Gig Harbor.
Courses are taught by incredible, certified teachers and content experts who
have a passion for fun and engaging programming.

Classes being offered include:

Math Madness
Grade 4 - 7
 
Science Magic
Grades 4 - 7

Learning on Purpose
Grades 6 - 8
 
Study Smart
Grades 9 - 11
 
 
For more information or to enroll go to www.hol-solutions.com/ignite

 

Rhythmic Movement Training Level 3

Rhythmic Movement Training

Level 3 taught by SONIA STORY
with Moira Dempsey
Bellevue, WA
 
HANDS-ON, EXPERIENTIAL TRAINING
 
 
Ideal for OTs, PTs, SLPs, RNs,
social workers, counselors, clinical
psychologists, psychiatric workers,
developmental optometrists,
special educators, rehab and
massage therapists, parents,
and other caregivers
 
 
 



Brain-building movements for help with concerns related to: ADD/ADHD, Autism,

Dyslexia, Anxiety, Speech, Learning and Developmental Delays, PTSD, TBI, Depression,

Social, Emotional, Sensory, and Behavioral Challenges as well as Generalized Stress.
 

 

July 13-14, 2013

Thursday, May 9, 2013

Methylation and Autism Talk


 METHYLATION AND AUTISM

Saturday, May 11, 2013

 Time: 11:15 AM - 1:15 PM    

Location: Seattle Public Library

University Branch Meeting Room

5009 Roosevelt Way N.E.

Seattle, WA 98105

SPECIAL SPEAKER: DR. BEN LYNCH, Methylation Specialist

Benjamin Lynch, ND received his Cell and Molecular Biology, BS from the
University of Washington and his ND from Bastyr University. His passion for
identifying the cause of disease directed him towards nutrigenomics and
methylation dysfunction. This passion is targeted specifically towards
preventing disease and optimizing health in unborn children. Currently, he
researches, writes and presents nationwide on the topic of MTHFR and
methylation defects. You may learn more about Dr. Lynch and his work at
www.MTHFR.net. Dr. Lynch is also the President & CEO of
www.SeekingHealth. com, a company oriented towards disease prevention and
health promotion. He lives in Seattle, WA with his wife, Nadia, and three
boys, Tasman, Mathew and Theodor.

The neurological, immunological and gastrointestinal systems are
dysfunctional in those on the autism spectrum. The underlying biochemical
dysfunctions must be found, identified and optimized. Methylation is a
critical biochemical system that must be evaluated and optimized in those
with autism - and - more importantly - in the parents of autistic children
so there is increased potential of having a child without autism. In this 90
minute presentation, Dr. Lynch will outline key laboratory tests, critical
questions to consider, dietary improvements not often recommended and how to
begin supporting methylation cautiously without triggering a worsening of
symptoms. Questions will be answered after the presentation.

You can prepare by watching this video prior to attending the talk. Do note
that this presentation is typically a paid presentation so please respect
Dr. Lynch's work and do not post on forums, websites or blogs or anywhere on
the internet. The video may be shared via email to physicians, family
members and friends.

http://www.youtube. com/watch? v=Mwn7RjSx3zM
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No RSVP needed, but always appreciated:

Janelle Hall, TACA (WA) Coordinator: janelle.hall@ tacanow.org OR
tallcedars@comcast. net, 206-371-5128, cell/text

Saturday, April 27, 2013

Nurtured Heart Approach Free E-Course


Nurtured Heart Approach
Free E-Course class

 
Nurtured Heart Approach, developed by author Howard Glasser, works even for the most troubled children. It is a method professionals, parents and educators can use to help children build inner strength and self esteem.

Nurtured Heart Approach works for all children and is especially helpful for intense, sensitive and needy children. It is very loving, yet firm and encourages connection and cooperation between parents and children.

Brain Gym in the Classroom - one day workshop

Brain Gym® in the Classroom - a one day workshop 
August 24 in Friday Harbor, WA
 
 
Contact Mariya Masters
360-378-1032
mariyairenemasters@gmail.com

Rhythmic Movement Training Level 3


Sonia Story with Moira Dempsey
 
 
July 13 -14, 2013
Bellevue, Washington

 Mosaic Children's Therapy Center

 RMT 1 & 2 are prerequisites
Click here for more information
Contact Sonia Story
360-732-4356

Wednesday, April 17, 2013

FEAT of Washington Open House (Families for Effective Autism Treatment)

You are invited to join us...

FEAT of Washington Open House
April 23rd, 2013
12pm-1:30pm
Four Square Church—Main Auditorium
14434 NE 8th Street, Bellevue WA 98007

In honor of Autism Awareness month
Families for Effective Autism Treatment of Washington is excited to share with you,
the many wonderful programs, services and resources we provide to families in the community!

For more information please call 425 223 5126
Lite lunch & drinks provided: Learn about the following...

Rising Star Academy
Inclusive Preschool
Transitions for Teens
Ages 13 to Adult
Summer Programs
Bellevue & Tacoma 4 to 12yr olds
Super Saturdays
Respite care for families 4-10
Tour our Classrooms
Talk with program coordinators
Speak with Family Resource Coordinators
Speak with Resource Coordinators


Connecting Families - Cultivating Communities - www.featwa.org

Tuesday, April 9, 2013

Workship on introducing Raw Foods into Your Family's Diet

Renee LaCoste
Raw Foods Chef, Gluten-Free Specialist,
and Mom to a son with ASD
Saturday, July 20th

11am - 2pm

$10/person


We will be sampling different items and will create something for lunch. You will leave with recipes and lots of ideas of how to introduce raw foods into your family's diet.

The workshop will be held at our nonprofit's office, located at 13117 Canyon Rd E in Puyallup. For directions and a map, please click here.

To RSVP, please fill out the form on our website's Events page.

Sunday, April 7, 2013

Autism and Starting Medical/Dietary Intervention, On Public Assistance, What Diet Does What? - TACA Webinares for June 2013


Starting medical intervention for autism spectrum disorders 
 
Medical & Diet
 
June 13, 10-11am PST /1-2pm EST
 
Lisa Ackerman - TACA
 
 

 Autism On Public Assistance  Resources
 
June 19, 10-11am PST /1-2pm EST
 
Holly Bortfeld - TACA
 
 

What diet does what? An explanation of the dietary interventions available 
 
Medical & Diet
 
June 27, 10-11am PST /1-2pm EST
 
Linda Betzold & Lisa Ackerman - TACA

Autism & College, Whole Body Approaches, Advice for Parents, Therapies available, Getting a Diagnosis - TACA Webinares for May 2013

How to get your child with ASD into college  Educational Wednesday,

 May 1, 10-11am PST / 1-2pm EST
 
Holly Bortfeld - TACA

 
 
How we impact the brain through whole body approaches in Autism Spectrum Disorder  Medical & Diet
 
Thursday, May 2, 10-11am PST / 1-2pm EST
 
Dr. Martha Herbert

www.marthaherbert.org

 
 
 
Staying Motivated on the autism journey – advice for parents  Resources
 
Thursday, May 9, 10-11am PST / 1-2pm EST
 
Lisa Ackerman - TACA
 
 
 

 What therapies are available for autism spectrum disorder  Educational
 
Tuesday, May 14, 10-11am PST / 1-2pm EST
 
Moira Giammatteo - TACA
 
 

 I think my child has autism – How to get a diagnosis and get started  Resources
 
May 22, 10-11am PST / 1-2pm EST
 
Holly Bortfeld - TACA

Autism & Puberty, Lastest Research, First Year Families, & Yeast Overgrowth - TACA Webinares for April 2013


Autism & Puberty – What to Expect 

 For teens & adults
 
Wednesday, April 3,  10-11am PST / 1-2pm EST

Holly Bortfeld

 


 The Latest in Autism Research  Medical & Diet
 
Tuesday, April 9, 10-11am PST /1-2pm EST
 
Dr. Martha Herbert

www.marthaherbert.org

 

 

 The autism journey for new parents – a quick start 

 Families in Year one

Friday, April 12, 10-11am PST / 1-2pm EST
 
Lisa Ackerman

 

 

Yeast Overgrowth in Autism  Medical & Diet
 
Wednesday, April 17, 10-11am PST /1-2pm EST
 
Holly Bortfeld

 

Monday, March 18, 2013

Special Ed. 101 & Love, Understanding, And Other Best Practices


Special Education Advocacy

Larry David


·        DSHS

·        Special Education 101 & Love, Understanding, And Other Best Practices,

·        May 1

The Inconvenient Truth of IEP, 504, and Other Best Practices: Behavior


 

Special Education Advocacy

Larry David

 
     ARC of Snohomish County


      
  Annual Behavior Workshop:

     “The Inconvenient Truth of IEP, 504, and Other Best Practices”: Behavior

April 20

Thursday, March 7, 2013

IDEA: Blueprint for Special Education

IDEA: Blueprint for Special Education
Presented by Washington Autism Alliance & Advocacy

Join us and 4 prominent area special education attorneys for the WAAA Special Education Summit on March 23rd, 10-4, Kirkland, WA. 
 
The special education process is like building a house. There is a logical order to both. The morning is a panel presentation by the 4 attorneys who will explain how to use the building blocks of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) to develop appropriate services for your child. The afternoon will provide small roundtable discussions with each attorney for in-depth discussion and Q & A on the topics that are of interest to you – voted on by you in the morning session.



http://www.washingtonautismadvocacy.org/updates/advocacy/training-workshops/?utm_source=Washington+Autism+Alliance+%26+Advocacy&utm_campaign=e57546b545-February_2013_Newsletter&utm_medium=email

Thursday, February 21, 2013

Reach for the Stars Dinner and Auction - Families for Effective Autism Treatment

REACH FOR THE
STARS
Dinner & Auction



Don't miss this year's event!
You'll find a family room makeover, a week long cruise and
many marvelous getaways to luxury hotels.


Saturday, March 9, 2013


Hyatt Regency, Bellevue

Registration begins at 5:30 pm

Dress: Cocktail Chic



Please join us!!


FEAT of Washington's single primary fundraising event held each year to ensure that our families have the hope and guidance they need to help their children reach their full potential.




To purchase tickets and for more event details please visit:
http://featwa.maestroweb.com/

Wednesday, February 20, 2013

South Sound Autism Partnership Conference

The Exceptional Families Network is proud to once again be a sponsor of the South Sound Autism Partnership's Conference & Resource Fair. We hope you can join us for some great learning opportunities about autism, with a focus this year on mental health across the lifespan.


Saturday, February 23rd

University of Washington - Tacoma

William Philip Hall


Registration opens soon!


Visit the SSAP website at:


"Like" SSAP on Facebook at:

Exceptional Bowl and Bid

Saturday, February 23rd

2-5pm

Narrows Plaza Bowl, Tacoma


LET THE GOOD TIMES ROLL!


This light-hearted event will feature a bowling tournament, silent auction, 50/50 raffle, and various awards for participants. Adults only, please!

We are still accepting donations of new items of value for our silent auction. To make a donation, please send an email to specialfamiliespc@gmail.com.


To view a partial list of some of the items up for auction, visit our Bowl & Bid page. We think there will be a lot of excitement over the African Safari Vacation we have available for bid!


Form a bowling team! We have extended our early bird registration discount an additional week! Through Feb 8th, you can register a team of 4, 5 or 6 and pay only $20 per person. And, if you pay for 5 players, you get the 6th free! After Feb 8th, the rate goes up to $25 per person. Online payments are accepted at our website via Paypal.


We need a few more volunteers! To help us out on the event day, please send an email no later than Feb 7th to specialfamiliespc@gmail.com.


For more information and to download our participation form, visit our Bowl & Bid page.

Summer Activity Ideas Provided by Special Families of Pierce County

MARCH: SUMMER ACTIVITY IDEAS

Representatives from local parks, camps
and other programs will be on-hand.


Monday, Mar 4th at 6:30pm - Parkland/Spanaway

Thursday, Mar 14th at 6:00pm - Downtown Tacoma


Parkland/Spanaway Location:

Pierce Cty Library Processing & Admin Ctr

Conference Room B

3005 112th St E, Tacoma


Downtown Tacoma Location:

Children's Musem of Tacoma

1501 Pacific Ave, Tacoma

-Childcare is limited!

Wednesday, February 13, 2013

Partnerships in Action for Special Ed. Conference


 

 

Partnerships in Action

for Special Education

 

A day of inspiration and learning for family members and professionals involved in the life of a child in special education.

 

Keynote: Sarah Pennington

Author of “Tap Dancing on Quicksand

While Gargling Peanut Butter”

 

 

Breakout Sessions :

 Parent Rights and Responsibilities

 Assistive Technology

 Mental Health Needs and School (in Spanish — en Español)

 Invisible Disabilities

 Understanding Evaluations

 Complaints : when, why and how

 Parent Rights and Responsibilities (in Spanish — en Español)

 Discipline and Mental Health in Special Education

 

March 2, 2013  8:30 am t 3:30 pm

$15

Clark College Corporate Learning Center

18700 SE Mill Plain Blvd.

Vancouver, WA

 

 
PAVE’s statewide Parent Training and Information Center (PTI) provides training, resources, and support for parents in WA whose children have special