Making a Difference Together

3rd Annual Special EducationLEAD Technologies Inc. V1.01

Parent Conference and Resource Fair

Sponsored by:

Family to Family Network- Katy (formerly Special Kids / Special Parents)

and KISD Special Education Department

 

THIS IS A FREE EVENT FOR ALL PARTICIPANTS

 

TO PRE-REGISTER FOR THE CONFERENCE, GO TO: www.familytofamilynetwork.org and click on Special Events for online registration or call Brenda Nelson at 713-466-6304 to register by phone

 

Date: Saturday, March 1, 2008

 

Time: 8:30 a.m. to 4:15 p.m.

 

Location:       Morton Ranch High School (KISD)

                21000 Franz Rd.

                        Katy, Texas 77449

 

Directions: Morton Ranch High School is located approximately 1 mile north of Interstate 10 on Franz Rd. between Westgreen Blvd. and Mason Rd. in Katy.

 

Conference Schedule:     8:30 a.m.                               Registration and Exhibits Open

9:00 Ð 10:15 a.m.                Session 1

10:15 Ð 10:45 a.m.              30 min. Break - Exhibits Open

10:45 Ð 12:00 noon             Session 2

12:00 Ð 1:30 p.m.                Lunch Break - Exhibits will close at 1:30

1:30 Ð 2:45 p.m.                   Session 3

2:45 Ð 3:00 p.m.                   15 min. Break

3:00 Ð 4:15 p.m.                   Session 4

 

 

Pre-registration is recommended to avoid long lines and allow you to choose the sessions you would like to attend. Most sessions will be limited to 30 participants. Sessions will be filled on a first come, first served basis.

 

Most topics are offered in two different sessions.

 

TO REGISTER ONLINE: Go to www.familytofamilynetwork.org and click on Special Events

 

QUESTIONS??? Contact Brenda Nelson at the Family to Family office, 713-466-6304 or f2fbrenda@sbcglobal.net .
Session 1: 9:00 Ð 10:15 a.m.

 

101 - Practical Parenting Tips from Love and Logic Learn some practical and easy to use parenting techniques from the Becoming a Love and Logic Parent program, which is an approach to raising kids that provides loving support from parents while at the same time expecting and teaching kids to be respectful and responsible.

Presenter: Barbara Zeigler, counselor, Rylander Elementary, KISD

(This presentation will repeat in session 2)

 

102 - Teach and Reach Students with Attention Deficit Disorders (ADD / ADHD) Attention Deficit Disorder is a widespread, little understood condition which impacts the lives of many individuals and those around them. This presentation will cover the characteristics of AD/HD and discuss how it is exhibited in the classroom and at home. Strategies for coping will be addressed.

Presenter: Laura Peddicord, Group Coordinator for the Katy Chapter of the Attention Deficit Disorders Association Southern Region and parent of a child with ADHD.

(This presentation will repeat in session 2)

 

103 - ÒGood Grief for KidsÓ Helping Your Child Cope with Loss Learn the various stages of grief and how children are affected both mentally and emotionally by loss. Techniques will be shared that parents can use to help their child through difficult periods.

Presenter: Remona Clark, M. Ed, LPC; Counselor at Morton Ranch High School, KISD

(This presentation will repeat in session 2)

 

104 - SSI and Social Security Benefits for Children with Disabilities Learn about the eligibility requirements, the disability decision process, Medicare and Medicaid coverage for individuals receiving SSI (Supplemental Security Income) and/or Social Security Disability benefits.

Presenter: Andrew Hardwick, Metropolitan Public Affairs Specialist, Social Security Administration

(This presentation will repeat in session 2)

 

105 - Work Incentives for Individuals Receiving SSI and Social Security Disability Benefits This presentation will review how work affects those individuals who receive SSI and Social Security Disability benefits.

Presenter: Juanita Gonzales, Area Work Incentive Coordinator, Social Security Administration

(This presentation will repeat in session 2)

 

106 - Improving Preschool Speech and Language at Home This presentation will explore various speech and language activities for parents to enhance communication through play.

Presenter: Sue Sullivan, Speech / Language Pathologist for KISDÕs Preschool Program for Children with Disabilities

(This presentation will repeat in session 2)

 

107 - Letting Go: A Guide to Leading Your Son / Daughter to Independence and Self-Advocacy This presentation will help parents gain an in depth and realistic approach to guiding their son / daughter to independence and self-advocacy. Topics covered will include: self-advocacy, social networking, family communication and self disclosure.

Presenter: Noemi Jenkins, Coordinator of Program for Adult Learning Skills (PALS), Cy-Fair College

(This presentation will repeat in session 2)

 

108 - The Floor-Time DIR Model for All Developmental Disabilities Ð What is it and how can it help? DIR stands for Developmental Individual Ð Differences Relationship Model. Relationships are an important part of life. The DIR intervention model supports the whole child, incorporating their unique and individual differences, and can be learned and utilized by parents, teachers and caregivers of children with any form of developmental disability.

Presenter: Sharon Duval, M.A., CCC/SLP, a speech / language pathologist who has specialized in working with children with neurological differences for over 20 years and is certified in the DIR model. Ms. Duval is on staff with the Monarch School.

(This presentation will repeat in session 2)

 

109 - Social Skills Instruction for Students with Asperger Syndrome and High Functioning Autism Social skills deficits are characteristic to students with autism spectrum disorders and may interfere with learning, successful inclusion, and lifelong success. Many ARD committees are addressing these deficits through development of social skills goals and objectives. This workshop addresses the primary areas of social problems with practical ideas to incorporate successful social skills instruction in the educational setting.

Presenter: Audrey Bivens, M. Ed, Program Supervisor Ð Special Education, KISD

(This presentation will repeat in session 3)

 

110 - Patterns of Family Emotions In this presentation, we will go over an array of emotions that parents / guardians more than likely will experience in raising a child with disabilities. Regardless of age, disability or social status, we all at one time or another can relate.

Presenter: Debbie De Luna, Bilingual Parent Trainer for Texas Parent to Parent. Debbie is the mother of a 9 year old child with Cerebral Palsy with Developmental Delays

(One session only, this presentation does not repeat)


 

111 - WhoÕs Driving the Bus? Picture your childÕs life as a ÒbusÓ. WhoÕs driving? Is it you or your child? Where is the bus going? Who chose the route, the destination, the speed? Who are the passengersÓ As parents, educators and service providers, we sometimes get so used to making decisions and plans for our kids that we donÕt always include them in making plans and decisions for their own lives. Join this session to gain a better understanding of ways to put of children in the ÒdriverÕs seatÓ to live the lives they choose for themselves.

Presenter: Jeanine Pinner, Training & Outreach Coordinator, Texas Parent to Parent

(One session only, this presentation does not repeat)

 

112 - Autism 101: An Introduction to Diagnosis and Intervention Participants will be introduced to the diagnostic criteria for Autistic Disorder. Treatment options and intervention approaches will be discussed.

Presenter: Laura K. Eskridge, Ph.D, LSSP for Katy ISD

(This presentation will repeat in session 3)

 

113 - Credit Scoring Ð Dispelling the Myths The medical bills associated with the care of a child with a disability can often negatively affect the credit report. Credit scores are used for everything from the rate you get on your mortgage, your car insurance, and even future employment. How credit scores are generated and used, what they mean, how to maximize them, and how to clean up credit issues will be discussed. We will walk through a credit report together and you will leave with a plan of action.

Presenter: Tracy Strickland, CMPS, Real Estate and Mortgage Broker. Tracy is also the father of a child with a disability.

(This presentation will repeat in session 3)

 

114 - Run Your Race! Raising a child with a disability is a lot like running a race Ð and itÕs a marathon, not a sprint! Apply real-life training techniques and philosophy to make sure you reach the finish line.

Presenter: Laura G. Buckner, M. Ed, LPC; Family to Family Network Ð Texas Project FIRST; Texas Center for Disability Studies UT Austin.

(One session only, this presentation does not repeat)

 

115 - How to Write Measurable Goals (and Objectives, as needed) How can I participate in writing my childÕs IEPÕs when I donÕt know where to begin? Parents will learn about present levels, TEKS (curriculum) and TAKS (testing), and how they are interrelated in the creation of measurable IEPÕs. Bring a copy of one of your childÕs IEPÕs and learn how to improve upon what already exists. Leave with confidence that you will be able to offer input and be better prepared for your childÕs next ARD meeting.

Presenter: Mary Jane Williams, Executive Director, Family to Family Network

(This presentation will repeat in session 4)

 

116 - Therapeutic Applications of Play in the Pool The presenter will briefly discuss the physical, cognitive, and psychological benefits of aquatics. A variety of activities that can be done with a child in the pool will be presented along with an explanation of the therapeutic applications of each activity. This presentation is appropriate for a wide range of diagnosis and severity, and includes both physical and cognitive limitations. A variety of pool ÒequipmentÓ will be discussed and inexpensive, homemade alternatives will be presented.

Presenter: Sara McMahan, PT, PCS. Ms. McMahan has 20 years of experience as a pediatric physical therapist and a board certified pediatric specialist trained in Neurodevelopmental Treatment (NDT) and certified in the Halliwick Method of aquatic therapy.

(This presentation will repeat in session 3)

 

117 - FREE Receptive and Expressive Communication Resources Presenters will share websites and examples of free and cheap resources to create communication and literacy resources for children who are non-verbal or have limited communication skills. There are websites with pre-made receptive and expressive communication boards that can be used by families with their children in all different environments. We will discuss how to use these communication boards to help students develop both their receptive and expressive language skills. We will share how receptive communication boards can be used with PECS and communication devices. Participants will leave with a list of websites that they can use to print off communication resources.

Presenters: Hindie Becker Dershowitz, M.A., R.P.E.D. Diagnostic Specialist for Assistive Technology, KISD, with Durinda Gardner, Speech Therapist for Assistive Technology, KISD

(One session only, this presentation does not repeat)

 

118 - Reading Research and Interventions This session will cover recent research on reading disabilities, tips for helping to identify which type of reading challenge your child may have and simple at-home techniques you can do to help your child.

Presenters: Sabrina Jones, B.S., Reading Specialist, Katy ISD and Dianne Hodge, Appraisal Specialist, M.A., LPC, LSSP, NCSP, Katy ISD

(One session only, this presentation does not repeat)

 

119 - How to Create a Student Introduction Portfolio One positive way a parent can contribute to their childÕs educational team is to build a portfolio for their child. A Portfolio can be an effective way to provide important information about your child to the school and to assist others in getting to know your child for who he or she is (not just for their disability). Leave this workshop understanding the process for beginning your childÕs portfolio.

Presenter: Leslie Lawson and Jan Sheehy, Family to Family Network

(One session only, this presentation does not repeat)

 

Session 2: 10:45 a.m. Ð 12:00 noon

 

201 Ð Practical Parenting Tips from Love and Logic (repeat Ð see session 1)

 

202 - Teach and Reach Students with Attention Deficit Disorders (repeat Ð see session 1)

 

203 - ÒGood Grief for KidsÓ Helping Your Child Cope with Loss (repeat Ð see session 1)

 

204 - SSI and Social Security Benefits for Children with Disabilities (repeat Ð see session 1)

 

205 - Work Incentives for Individuals Receiving SSI and Social Security Disability Benefits (repeat Ð see session 1)

 

206 Ð Improving Preschool Speech and Language at Home (repeat Ð see session 1)

 

207 - Letting Go: A Guide to Leading Your Son / Daughter to Independence and Self-Advocacy (repeat Ð see session 1)

 

208 - The Floor-Time DIR Model for All Developmental Disabilities Ð What is it and how can it help?

(repeat Ð see session 1)

 

209 Ð What Parents Should Know about Behavior, Communication, and Self-Help Skills for Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders

Children with autism spectrum disorders often have significant behavioral challenges and deficits in communication. This presentation will cover issues in behavior, communication and self-help as related to children with autism spectrum disorders, as well as provide strategies to promote positive behaviors and skill development to promote independence.

Presenter: Audrey Bivens, M. Ed, Program Supervisor Ð Special Education, KISD

(One session only, this presentation does not repeat)

 

210 - Understanding and Empathizing with Parents of Children with Disabilities Many myths exist when interacting with or thinking of families of children with disabilities. Here we will uncover the truth about families and why understanding and empathizing with our families is key not only for success, but for our own well being.

Presenter: Debbie De Luna, Bilingual Parent Trainer for Texas Parent to Parent. Debbie is the mother of a 9 year old child with Cerebral Palsy with Developmental Delays

(One session only, this presentation does not repeat)

 

211 - The Basics of the Texas Medicaid Waiver Programs Obtain the basic information about Texas Medicaid Waiver Programs in this session. Leave with a handout that provides you with eligibility and contact information as well as an overview of the services / supports available through each Waiver Program.

Presenter: Jeanine Pinner, Training & Outreach Coordinator, Texas Parent to Parent

(One session only, this presentation does not repeat)

 

212 - AspergerÕs Disorder and High Functioning Autism: Moving Beyond the Diagnosis Participants will be introduced to the diagnostic criteria for these disorders and will learn practical solutions to help their child address everyday concerns.

Presenter: Laura K. Eskridge, Ph.D, LSSP for Katy ISD

(This presentation will repeat in session 4)

 

213 - Debt Management / Mortgage Planning The medical bills associated with the care of a child with a disability can be overwhelming. We have all taken on more debt with little understanding of how it works, what it really costs and how to get on track to get out of it. We will discuss areas of saving and structuring to address your mortgage, credit cards and other consumer debt. Participants will leave with a plan and some light at the end of the tunnel.

Presenter: Tracy Strickland, CMPS, Real Estate and Mortgage Broker. Tracy is also the father of a child with a disability.

(This presentation will repeat in session 4)

 

214 - Making the Journey with the Destination in Mind Have you ever taken a long road trip? The miles can be endless and relationships can become strained. Consider this: Parents and School Professionals are on a road trip together. The trip is your childÕs journey through public education; the destination is your childÕs adult life. How can you make the journey together and ensure that you reach your destination successfully?

Presenter: Laura G. Buckner, M. Ed, LPC; Family to Family Network Ð Texas Project FIRST; Texas Center for Disability Studies UT Austin.

(This presentation will repeat in session 4)

 

215 - Dyslexia 101 This informative presentation will focus on reading difficulties, especially dyslexia and multisensory, research-based instruction.

Presenters: Mary North, M.Ed., Director of Parent Resources and Allison Peck, MLA, CALT, Parent Resource Office, Neuhaus Education Center.

(This presentation will repeat in session 3)

 

216 - Understanding ARD Paperwork: What does this mean? ARD paperwork sometimes contains special education terminology or may be difficult to understand. This session will provide participants an overview of the required ARD documentation, and an opportunity to ask questions and seek clarification.

Presenter: Dianne Hodge, Appraisal Specialist, M.A., LPC, LSSP, NCSP, Katy ISD

(One session only, this presentation does not repeat)

 

217 - Estate & Financial Planning for the Special Needs Family The What, Why, When and How of developing a unique Lifeplan for you and your special needs child. Topics include The Planning Protocol, social security and waiver programs, developing proper wills, trusts and estate management documents, developing a Care Plan, Financial Plan and Transition Plan, and the importance of having a Letter of Intent.

Presenter: Steve Rhatigan, C.E.P., ChLAP. Mr. Rhatigan has worked with the special needs community for over 25 years.

(This presentation will repeat in session 3)

 

218 - Top 10 Things Every Parent of a Child with Autism Needs to Know This presentation is for parents of a child who has been diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder in the past two years. The presenter will explore the many issues that parents face when dealing with the complex and controversial world of autism. The presenter will touch on issues that parents need to be aware of when seeking treatment, education, insurance and care for both their child and themselves.

Presenter: Cynthia Singleton, FEAT Houston and the parent of an 8 year old recovering from autism.

(This presentation will repeat in session 3)

 

219 - Family Stress and Effective Interventions Raising a child with a disability can place extra stress on a family. This presentation will cover the cycle of loss, grief and coping skills that families can utilize. Ways to preserve the marital relationship, strengthen the parent / child relationship, provide an appropriate family structure and support for siblings will be discussed.

Presenter: Erin Webb M.A., LMFT, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, The Shape of Behavior, Inc.

(This presentation will repeat in session 3)

 

220 - Post-Secondary Possibilities: Self-Determination and Independence for Students with High Functioning Autism and AspergerÕs Syndrome This interactive parent presentation will provide the unique perspective of a university student diagnosed with AspergerÕs Syndrome. Now classified as a junior, James will discuss which strategies and resources have and have not been successful in his life and how the family and school can adequately prepare for the challenge ahead. Ranked in the top 15% of his class, James will demonstrate that any child with AspergerÕs Syndrome, when provided with the appropriate social and educational interventions, can be fully independent and successful in their post-secondary life. Participants are encouraged to ask questions regarding any aspect of JamesÕ educational, social or daily life.

Presenter: James E. Williams, Junior at Sam Houston State University, College of Education. James is pursuing a degree in special education.

(This presentation will repeat in session 3)

 

221 - Organizing Tips for Your Elementary School Child The presentation will offer suggestions to help children that have organizational challenges at the elementary school level. Techniques which have been found to be practical and teacher / parent approved will be discussed.

Presenter: Anu Madgavkar, M.S., LSSP for KISD

(One session only, this presentation does not repeat)

 

Session 3: 1:30 Ð 2:45 p.m.

 

301 - Understanding Changes in State-wide Assessments for Special Education This presentation will address the ARD committeeÕs responsibility in determining which assessment a student who receives special education services will take. An explanation of the TAKS, TAKS Ð Accommodated, TAKS- Modified, and TAKS- Alternate will be discussed.

Presenter: Fred Shafer, Executive Director for Special Education, Counseling and Psychological Services, KISD

(This presentation will repeat in session 4)

 

302 - Growing Up in a ÒSpecialÓ Family: Helping Siblings of Children with Disabilities Thrive Parents are often concerned about the implications of their children growing up with a sibling that has a disability. This session will review the benefits and drawbacks of being part of a ÒspecialÓ family, typical characteristics of siblings of children with disabilities, common concerns that siblings have, strategies for helping siblings adjust and cope, and resources for strengthening the entire family. The information will be based on research studies as well as the presenterÕs personal experiences growing up as the sister of a girl with cerebral palsy and working as an occupational therapist for children with a wide range of disabilities. Parents will be encouraged to share their concerns and experiences and collaborate with other parents to maximize learning.

Presenter: Katie Ceary, MOT, OTR; TEAM Approach

(This presentation will repeat in session 4)


 

303 - Emotional and Behavioral Disorders: Where can parents turn for help? This informative discussion will focus on current child and adolescent mental health issues and what parents can do to help their child. An introduction to the ChildrenÕs Mental Health Action Network: ParentÕs Roadmap and Resource Guide will be provided as well as information about NAMIÕs Visions for Tomorrow free parent classes, support group and monthly programs held in Katy and West Houston locations. The presenters are all parents of children with disabilities who have become trained advocates and educators for other parents.

Presenters: Madeleine Elmer, National Alliance on Mental Illness, West Houston Visions for Tomorrow parenting class teacher, ChildrenÕs Mental Health Action Network Advocate. With Susan and Robert Steed, NAMI West Houston Visions for Tomorrow teachers and advocates.

(This presentation will repeat in session 4)

 

304 - How to Talk to Your Child About His / Her Disability Parents can prepare to have this important conversation with their child. The speaker will use her experience in explaining to her child in a way that helped to build his self-esteem, prepare him to come to his ARD meetings and eventually learn to become a self-advocate as a result of the initial conversation that started with the question, ÒMom, why am I disabled, but IÕm not handicapped?Ó

Presenter: Mercedes Alejandro, volunteer for the ARC of Greater Houston and coordinator of the support group for Spanish-speaking parents ÒFamilias Hispanas del ArcÓ for the past 10 years.

(This presentation will repeat in session 4)

 

305 - WhatÕs his / her motivation again? Motivation is crucial to the learning process. WeÕll discuss the functions of behavior, how important motivation and contingent access are, and how to find suitable ways to reinforce.

Presenter: Michael Conteh, Director of Tangible Differences Learning Center

(This presentation will repeat in session 4)

 

306 - Guardianship and Special Needs Planning This presentation addresses legal issues that families with special needs children may need or face, including guardianship, medical care and protecting benefits.

Presenter: Michele K. Goldberg, Attorney at Law

(This presentation will repeat in session 4)

 

307 - Exposure Leads to Employment This presentation will address the need to expose children with disabilities early and often to community activities, recreational activities and peer organizations that could lead to employment opportunities.

Presenter: Angela C. Price, Transition Counselor Division for Blind Services, DARS

(This presentation will repeat in session 4)

 

308 Ð My Grandmother Spent the Night in MY Apartment Ð Understanding Self Determination Since the age of 10, Ricky spent his life in several institutional settings in Texas. His life has changed now, due to a committed Circle of Support, innovative budgeting and the HCS Medicaid Waiver. Using the tools of self determination, Ricky is now living in his own apartment, working a job that he enjoys, and making a difference for self advocates throughout Texas. The Self Determination for Texas project provides insight and understanding to the true meaning of self determination for people with disabilities.

Presenters: Ricky Broussard, Director of Get a Life in Texas, with Norine Jaloway, Executive Director of Imagine Enterprises

(One session only, this presentation does not repeat)

 

309 - Social Skills Instruction for Students with Asperger Syndrome and High Functioning Autism

(repeat Ð see session 1)

 

310 - People First Language In this session, we will discuss People First Language by sharing how to speak to people with disabilities or about them with respect and consideration. By sharing this, we can be part of positive changes in attitude and language regarding people with disabilities.

Presenter: Debbie De Luna, Bilingual Parent Trainer for Texas Parent to Parent. Debbie is the mother of a 9 year old child with Cerebral Palsy with Developmental Delays

(One session only, this presentation does not repeat)

 

311 - Family Centered Care: Building a Meaningful Partnership with Your ChildÕs Doctor The American Academy of Pediatrics promotes the Òmedical homeÓ as best practice. Just what is it? A medical home is not a placeÉit is a partnership between a child, the childÕs family, and the childÕs primary health care setting. Families who have a Òmedical homeÓ for their child receive information and support from a medical professional who knows them and their child, enabling them to make informed decisions about their childÕs care. Join this session to learn more about this important partnership and how to create one for your child and family.

Presenter: Jeanine Pinner, Training & Outreach Coordinator, Texas Parent to Parent

(One session only, this presentation does not repeat)

 

312 - Autism 101: An Introduction to Diagnosis and Intervention (repeat Ð see session 1)

 

313 - Credit Scoring Ð Dispelling the Myths (repeat Ð see session 1)


 

314 - Education, Training and Accommodations for Adults with Disabilities This session will feature an explanation of college level classes, training and section 504 accommodations for students considering the Houston Community College System. The VAST Program (Vocational Advancement in Social Skills Training) and information about certificate programs will be discussed. Presenter: Dr. Karen M. OÕConnell Taylor, MSW, LCSW, Ph.D. Dr. OÕConnell is a Disabilities Counselor and Academic Advisor for the Houston Community College System Ð Northwest.

(One session only, this presentation does not repeat)

 

315 - Dyslexia 101 (repeat Ð see session 2)

 

316 - Therapeutic Applications of Play in the Pool (repeat Ð see session 1)

 

317 - Estate & Financial Planning for the Special Needs Family (repeat Ð see session 2)

 

318 - Top 10 Things Every Parent of a Child with Autism Needs to Know (repeat Ð see session 2)

 

319 - Family Stress and Effective Interventions (repeat Ð see session 2)

 

320 - Post-Secondary Possibilities: Self-Determination and Independence for Students with High Functioning Autism and AspergerÕs Syndrome (repeat Ð see session 2)

 

Session 4: 3:00 Ð 4:15 p.m.

 

401 - Understanding Changes in State-wide Assessments for Special Education (repeat Ð see session 3)

 

402 - Growing Up in a ÒSpecialÓ Family: Helping Siblings of Children with Disabilities Thrive (repeat Ð see session 3)

 

403 - Emotional and Behavioral Disorders: Where can parents turn for help? (repeat Ð see session 3)

 

404 - How to Talk to Your Child About His / Her Disability (repeat Ð see session 3)

 

405 - WhatÕs his / her motivation again? (repeat Ð see session 3)

 

406 - Guardianship and Special Needs Planning (repeat Ð see session 3)

 

407 - Exposure Leads to Employment (repeat Ð see session 3)

 

408 Ð Employment, Money, Social Security, and Transition Challenges Graduation is great Ð especially when you have something to graduate to! Employment is a natural transition outcome. A good plan, savvy teachers and knowledgeable community resources can result in a transition that makes sense for the young adult with a disability and the family!

Presenters: Norine Jaloway, Executive Director of Imagine Enterprises, with Ricky Broussard, Director of Get a Life in Texas

(One session only, this presentation does not repeat)

 

409 - Insurance and Autism As of January 1, 2008, newly-issued, fully insured policies will need to meet the requirements of HB 1919. Passed in 2007, the bill requires children with autism between the ages of two and six, to receive insurance coverage of therapeutic treatments for autism, including ABA. This presentation will address the provisions of HB 1919, which types of insurance plans fall under the requirements, how parents will need to advocate with insurers and physicians and what consumers need to consider before selecting an ABA service provider. You will get the most out of the talk if you know before hand whether you and your family are insured by a fully funded plan or a self funded plan.

Presenter: Cynthia Singleton, FEAT Houston and the parent of an 8 year old recovering from autism.

(One session only, this presentation does not repeat)

 

410 - Resources Every Parent Should Know About An overview of major resources, state funding, non-governmental organizations and useful contact information. SSI, Medicaid, Medicaid waiver programs and other helpful resources will be discussed.

Presenter: Debbie De Luna, Bilingual Parent Trainer for Texas Parent to Parent. Debbie is the mother of a 9 year old child with Cerebral Palsy with Developmental Delays

(One session only, this presentation does not repeat)

 

411 - How Was School Today? When ÒFineÓ and ÒOKÓ ArenÕt Enough! Keeping the lines of communication open between home and school isnÕt always easy, and itÕs helpful to have a variety of techniques that meet our ever-changing needs available. Join this session to learn more about numerous effective ways to keep the lines of communication open and be prepared to share those that have worked for you!

Presenter: Jeanine Pinner, Training & Outreach Coordinator, Texas Parent to Parent

(One session only, this presentation does not repeat)


 

412 - AspergerÕs Disorder and High Functioning Autism: Moving Beyond the Diagnosis (repeat Ð see session 2)

 

413 - Debt Management / Mortgage Planning (repeat Ð see session 2)

 

414 - Making the Journey with the Destination in Mind (repeat Ð see session 2)

 

415 - How to Write Measurable Goals (and Objectives, as needed) (repeat Ð see session 1)