TRANSFORMATIONAL TIMES Volume 4, Issue 3 J u l y , 2 0 1 7
THE MISSION OF WESLEY SPECTRUM IS TO PROVIDE TRANSFORMATIONAL SUPPORT FOR CHILDREN & FAMILIES AS THEY STRIVE TO BECOME MORE INDEPENDENT, RESPONSIBLE, & CARING Jack is 4 years old and is a big brother to his 1 year old sibling. Jack enjoys MEMBERS OF THE COMMUNITY. reading, arts and crafts, dinosaurs and outer space to name a few of his many INSIDE THIS ISSUE : interests. Jack loves to play with his friends in his neighborhood which is something that he has been working on with his BHRS team. Jack started News & 2 Announcements with BHRS services in June of 2016 with BSC and TSS. When Jack first started he was using single word phrases, he would hide from his peers/ Creative Arts News & 5 brother and it was hard for him to stay in the same room and engage Announcements socially. This year Jack went to a birthday party at school and he was able to engage with others during the party, asking questions and playing Wonder Kids 9 Corner games. Jack has even joined groups of kids at the community pool. He is now Employees of the 10 greeting people independently, Quarter answering who and where questions and
New Employees 11 using multiple word phrases all independently. While Jack still has Creativity Corner 12 areas to work on, he has made
Resources 13 significant strides in a short amount of time. His family works very closely with Fun Stuff To Do 17 the BHRS team to guide treatment With Kids and to build upon skills both inside and
Just For Fun 18 outside of session. Jack and his family are a true pleasure to work with, we all Contact 19 look forward to what comes next for Jack Information as he continues to excel.
NEWSLETTER DEVELOPED BY: KATIE HARRILL www.facebook.com/WesleySpectrum
P AGE 2 NEWS & ANNOUNCEMENTS
WESLEY SPECTRUM IS CLOSED FOR SEVERAL DESIGNATED HOLIDAYS.
On these days NO services can be provided.
DESIGNATED HOLIDAYS THIS QUARTER FALL ON THE FOLLOWING DATES: July 4th—Independence Day
Be sure to check with your Wonder Kids Therapist to see how these closings might affect your child's regularly scheduled sessions. Many sites will also offer make up sessions for the holidays.
Watch for information on these sessions at your location & remember to call your Wonder Kids office to cancel and/or reschedule your child’s session.
TO RESCHEDULE MISSED WONDER KIDS, CREATIVE ARTS, OUTPATIENT & BHRS SESSIONS, PLEASE CONTACT YOUR OFFICE OR THERAPIST.
SHARED BY WESLEY SPECTRUM’S WELLNESS COMMITTEE
P AGE 3 NEWS & ANNOUNCEMENTS
Pittsburgh Today Live Helps Wesley Celebrate National Autism Awareness Month Autism Awareness month is April and for Wesley Spectrum Services, the week from April 3rd through April 9th, also meant holding our annual Pieces of Hope Cookie Fundraising Campaign with local Panera Bread stores who are owned by the Pan -American Group. This year Wesley Spectrum Services received the proceeds from the cookie fundraising to help support our Autism programs like BHRS, Wonder Kids, Creative Arts, and Autism Outpatient. I was asked to promote this cookie fundraiser by going on for a live interview on Pittsburgh Today Live which airs on Channel 2, KDKA. When I was asked to go on PTL for this interview I was excited, nervous, and honored all at the same time. I was excited to be a part of such an incredible fundraising campaign that helps raise money for so many of our clients in our Autism program. I was also nervous because I have never done a live interview on TV before! I also felt honored to be asked to represent Wesley Spectrum’s Autism Service Line and speak about Autism, awareness, the programs we have at Wesley Spectrum, and to promote the fundraiser that helps out programs. Being a therapist in various positions at Wesley Spectrum in our Autism programs, I was thrilled to able to continue my dedication to helping kids and families on a larger scale. The morning of the interview I was able to see the set before the show started which helped relieve a great deal of anxiety. Caitlin gave me some possible talking points from the interview, which I practiced up until the interview began. When I met Kristen Sorensen, she introduced herself and asked me a few questions about what I do and how long I’ve been with Wesley Spectrum. She was so nice! When the interview began, it felt like a typical conversation I have had with a family member or a friend asking about Autism, what programs are offered at Wesley Spectrum, and explaining the cookie fundraiser. The questions flew by and before I knew it the interview was over! I didn’t even think about the fact that it was a live interview while I was answering the questions because it felt so natural to talk about what I do on a day to day basis. My family and friends recorded and watched the interview, as did I! It was such an incredible experience and something I will never forget! Here is a direct link to Chris’s Interview: http://app.criticalmention.com/app/#clip/view/26719770? token=781a1b02-933b-43c9-b1e9-2461bd8c1780
P AGE 4 NEWS & ANNOUNCEMENTS
There’s an opportunity for you as parents to share your knowledge of raising a child with autism and contribute to research at Penn State.
Whether you choose to participate or not has no impact on your services with Wesley, this is simply a survey that is collecting information from volunteer families.
The research team is conducting a project to determine what treatments for people with autism that parents find effective.
The research would require you to complete an online survey (https://pennstate.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_0J65uCQMwSu5Hwx) examining what autism treatments you have seen implemented, what treatments you find effective, and your thoughts about the treatment effectiveness.
The number of questions will depend upon your experience with different autism treatments. All responses will be anonymous – no identifying information will be collected.
We really appreciate any help you can give us in understanding the quality interventions for people with autism in the United States.
If you have questions about this survey, you may contact either of the lead researchers: Morgan Zymnis [email protected]
P AGE 5 CREATIVE ARTS NEWS & ANNOUNCEMENTS
P AGE 6 CREATIVE ARTS NEWS & ANNOUNCEMENTS
P AGE 7
P AGE 8 CREATIVE ARTS NEWS & ANNOUNCEMENTS
P AGE 9 WONDER KIDS CORNER
WONDER KIDS CORNER FRIENDLY REMINDERS Submitted by: Angeline Buczkowski, MSCP, LBS Program Coordinator, Bridgeville
RIENDLY EMINDER F R : HERE'S A LOOK AT UPCOMING
During the summer, we understand that fami- GROUP TOPICS AT WONDER KIDS:
lies will be taking vacations. We hope that your family enjoys the summer and that you engage Understanding what’s funny Being a flexible thinker in many activities! If you need to cancel a ses- Being tolerant sion, please contact your office and inform the Helping others staffing supervisor. Understanding fantasy vs. reality
Expressing feelings If you are canceling a session, there is a pos- Using coping skills sibility you can make-up your session during Dealing with change the billing week. Call the office and ask to speak with the staffing supervisor. 5 TRANSFERRING SKILLS TIPS: If you are going to be a few minutes late, Fill a Jar or bucket up when you see your please call ahead to notify the office. If your child practicing a skill, let them earn a Wonder Kids site uses an after-hours cell special reward or activity when it is full phone, please call that number if no one at the Find optical illusion pictures and discuss office is available to take your call. how some people see different things
Play a game of emotion charades FOR QUESTIONS ABOUT SCHEDULING OR TO RESCHEDULE, PLEASE CALL YOUR OFFICE AT: Help your child make comic strip scenarios of them or a favorite character BRIDGEVILLE PENN HILLS WEXFORD using the skill
412-564-1172 412 - 573 - 0141 724 - 443 - 8900 Staffing Supvr. Staffing Supvr. Staffing Supvr. Have a family “Joke of the day” to practice Krista Baselj Frank Grazulis Jacki Maskrey using humor
Has Your Insurance Changed?
IF YOUR INSURANCE COVERAGE CHANGES, PLEASE IMMEDIATELY NOTIFY YOUR BSC, MT, WONDER KIDS STAFF OR AUTHORIZATION SPECIALIST:
Mary Jean Goodrich—Wexford 724-443-8900 x5474 Jennifer Stoner - Bridgeville 412-564-1175 Angee Knepshield—Penn Hills 412-573-0141 Accounts Receivable Associate (Joyce Johns) 724-502-2273
P AGE 10 EMPLOYEES OF THE QUARTER
TIERNEY LUDWICK has been working for Wesley Spectrum since December, 2016 and is currently a Behavior Specialist/Mobile Therapist in the Wexford office. Tierney is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. She received her BSW from the University of Valley Forge and her MSW from Roberts Wesleyan College in Rochester, New York. Tierney identifies getting to serve the child and adolescent population as her favorite aspect of her job as she realized after working with adults that her passion is working with children and their families. Tierney shares a funny story from when a client responded to her direction to complete a non-preferred activity by stating “I cannot do that. I am only at 12% percent!” It was the first time a child had used the percentage of energy left to refuse to complete a task. Tierney has a number of hobbies that keep her busy including hiking, traveling, dancing, playing TIERNEY LUDWICK board games, volunteering as an Usher for the Pittsburgh Cultural Trust and WEXFORD remaining involved in her church community.
KRISTEN OBER has worked for Wesley Spectrum for three years. She obtained her undergraduate degree at the University of Pittsburgh and her graduate degree at Duquesne University. She took courses in Applied Behavior Analysis through Florida Institute of Technology in order to receive her BCBA. She currently serves a number of roles out of the Bridgeville office. She is an outpatient therapist as well as a Behavior Specialist/Mobile Therapist in the BHRS program. She facilitates outside trainings for the Healthy Relationship Curriculum and provides supervision to staff working toward clinical licensure. Kristen says her favorite part of her job is this variety of job responsibilities as well as the people with whom she works.. Kristen has two children whom she says amaze her every day with their imaginations and caring personalities. KRISTEN OBER BRIDGEVILLE
CASEY STONE has worked for Wesley Spectrum for a year and a half. She is currently a Therapeutic Support Staff in the Penn Hills office. Casey has her Bachelors in Administration of Justice from Penn State University. Casey enjoys working with the kids and identifies the fact that there is something different every day about her job as her favorite aspect of being a TSS. While Casey does not identify one specific funny thing to happen to her in her current role, she recognizes the importance of laughing every day even at the little things. Casey has a number of hobbies to keep her busy outside of work. She enjoys running, fishing and going camping. In general, Casey states that she likes being outside as much as possible. CASEY STONE PENN HILLS
P AGE 14 NEW EMPLOYEES
Inside Story Headline NEW EMPLOYEES THE BEHAVIORAL HEALTH SERVICE LINE IS HAPPY TO WELCOME THE FOLLOWING EMPLOYEES TO OUR TEAM:
PENN HILLS: BRIDGEVILLE: WEXFORD: Isaac Ani, BSC/MT-LBS Alyssa Alouise, TSS Jonathon Baillie, BSC/MT Wendy Barge, TSS Melissa Benincasa, TS Jennine Converse, TS Sella Carne, Intern John Boharic, TS Megan DeFiore, BSC-BSL Jenifer Kevicki, TSS Samandra Casey, TS Kasandra Kniess, TSS Alexander Pang, TSS Kelsey Counihan, TSS/TS Brittney Harencame, TSS Emily Samara, TSS Michael Ferry, TS Alison Marcin, BSC Tiffani Thompson, TSS Chelsea Freeman, TSS/TS Christopher Panzeri, TSS/TS Jiaang Xialoi, TSS Andrea Laffey, TSS Nichole Shepard, TSS Ming Yuan, TS Alison Mazefsky, TSS/TS Richard Tabor, TSS/TS Casey Stewart, TSS/TS Bria Toneff, MT/TS
WHAT NEW STAFF SAY ABOUT BEING AN EMPLOYEE AT WESLEY
An organization that is invested in the success of their staff through a variety of training courses. These training courses provide the staff with the ability to transfer skill sets to children and families they work with.
My first week of training at Wesley Spectrum has been both enlightening and fun. During my time working with the kids, I realized that a lot of them have similar interests that I had as a kid or still do as an adult. It makes me feel that everything I became interested in or did as a hobby throughout my life, as well as my education, has all culminated together to help me prepare for this specific job. It definitely makes the work fun and easier to complete when you can truly relate to your clients.
Everyone is very friendly and willing to help you!
Wesley Spectrum is always looking for individuals to help transform the lives of children and families, visit our Career Page to learn more about the positions and opportunities available. www.wesleyspectrum/careers
P AGE 12 CREATIVITY CORNER SUMMER FUN ON RAINY DAYS SUBMITTED BY: ARIANNA BENDLIN, MUSIC THERAPIST Summer is a great opportunity to really enjoy the ACTIVITY DICE outdoors, but on days when the weather does not cooperate, it can put a damper on those plans. Sometimes being stuck inside can really lead to Here are some ideas to stay occupied inside on excess energy, and this activity is a great way to those dreary days! channel that and let some energy out! For this
activity, you will have to create your own dice. You INDOOR SCAVENGER HUNT can look online to find origami patterns for making dice with paper, or you can tape paper to a square Make a list of items around box you might have lying around (such as a tissue the house for your children to box). Once your dice is made, write different find (or look on Google and actions on the outside of the dice. find a list that has already Some examples are: been made!). Some ideas include: something fluffy, your favorite book, a Stomp like a dinosaur pencil, something green, a ball, a coin, etc. The Spin in a circle possibilities are endless! Join your child on the hunt Hop like a frog for these items or just let them roam around freely WIGGLE!
to find each object! Allow them to take pictures of For an added challenge, consider making TWO each find to prove they found all of them. Try to dice for your children to roll at the same time. Then include items all around the house (upstairs and they have to complete both activities at once! How downstairs) – the more moving they have to do the funny would it be to spin in a circle and wiggle? more energy they will get out! Throw on your favorite music playlist to add to the fun.
PAPER TOWEL BUTTERFLIES COLOR WALK This process is similar to tie Gather up an assortment of construction paper of dying, but instead of using different colors, or use white clothing, you use paper towels. paper that you mark with different You will also need food colors, and tape them to the floor coloring and pipe cleaners. in a path around your house. First, mix your food coloring Make sure the colors are with water in separate bowls. alternating so you do not have the Then, fold your paper towel in half four times. Now same color multiple times in a row. The challenge you get to be creative! Experiment with dipping the is to get from one room to another by only stepping corners of your folded paper towel in different on certain colors. Also try hopping to each color or bowls of food coloring. Be careful not to drench the crawling! paper towel too much! Once you’ve finished, lay out your paper towels to dry in a convenient place in your home (could be a table, counter, spare room, etc.). Consider putting some large paper under the towels while they dry so the food EXPLORE YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD! coloring doesn’t make a mess. Once the paper Just because it’s raining, doesn’t mean you have to towels have dried, gather in the center and wrap the be cooped up in your house all day. pipe cleaner around, leaving some extra pipe Do a little research (or review this newsletter) cleaner to make the butterfly’s antennas! to find out if any events are happening near you!
P AGE 13 RESOURCES
P AGE 14 RESOURCES
RECOMMENDED BOOKS FOR INDIVIDUALS, PARENTS, TEACHERS, & CLINICIANS The Explosive Child The ABC’S of Bullying By Ross W. Greene, Ph.D. Prevention This book is recommended as an excellent source for solutions By Kenneth Shore, Psy.D. for the child with ODD. Dr. This updated book includes Greene offers a different look at a special chapter on children with violent temper cyber-bullying. This edition tantrums. It is not a quick fix but offers a philosophy & addresses the often recommendations on teaching devastating societal problem your child how to develop better of bullying in our schools. It coping skills. This book falls presents the necessary short on teaching parents how information, training and to teach emotional maturity. guidance needed by the stakeholder groups Administrators and Pupil Raising An Emotionally Services Staff, Teachers, Paraprofessionals, and Parents of the school community. Intelligent Child
By: Joan Declaire, John M. Gottman, Daniel P. Coleman, & Joan de Claire
This book teaches coping skills and what your children can do with their emotions. According to The Bully, the Bullied, and the Ericka Lutz: "The authors identify a five-step "emotion Bystander coaching" process to help teach children how to By: Barbara Coloroso recognize and address their feelings, which includes becoming aware of the This international best- child's emotions; seller includes a new sec- recognizing that dealing tion on cyberbullying, one with these emotions is an of the world's most trusted opportunity for intimacy; parenting listening empathetically; educators gives parents, helping the child label caregivers, educators—and emotions; setting limits; most of all, kids— and problem-solving. the tools to break the cycle Chapters on divorce, of violence. fathering, and age-based differences in emotional development help make Gottman's teachings detailed and useful."
P AGE 15 RESOURCES
SUMMER RESOURCES & ACTIVITIES FOR FAMILIES
Submitted By: Ashley Julin MS LPC, CARES Navigator and Outpatient Therapist
The Power of Poison at Carnegie Museum May 27, 2017- September 4, 2017. Discover poison’s role in nature, fairytales, and culture. There are live animals and interactive exhibits. Visit http://pop.carnegiemnh.org. for more information.
Bounce U: Sensory Bounce This program is for children with Sensory Integration Dysfunction, Autism, and other disabilities with a sensory compo- nent. Warrendale, PA. Call 724-935-8555 or visit https://www.bounceu.com/ warrendale-pa/other-ways-to-play/open-bounce/ for more information. Waterfront Theater: Sensory Friendly Films The second and fourth Saturday of every month there are movie screenings that are accommodating to those with sensory needs. Visit https://www.amctheatres.com/programs/ sensory-friendly-films for more information.
Fun Slides Skating Center: Sensory-Friendly Skate They can skate, jump, and play without worrying about unexpected noises, loud music, bright or flashing lights, or large crowds of kids. Pittsburgh, PA. Call 412-364-9400 for more information.
Glad Run Foundation Sensory Playground The Sensory Playground was designed by national experts and is one of the first playgrounds in the nation designed specifically to meet the sensory, physical, and socialization needs of children with autism. Zelienople, PA. Opens June 27. 2017. Call 724-452-4453 for more information.
The Children’s Institute of Pittsburgh Accessible playground and therapeutic garden. Call 412-420-2400 for more information.
Allegheny County Parks All-inclusive playgrounds at: Deer Lakes, Harrison Hills, Hartwood Acres, North, Round Hill, Settlers Cabin, South and White Oak Parks. Call 412-350-7275
P AGE 16 RESOURCES
EVENTS & FUN THINGS TO DO!
Peppa Pig Live!
October 22nd at the Byham Theater Come join Peppa, George, Mummy Pig, Daddy Pig and more in an all singing, Waterplay all-dancing adventure full of songs, games Indoor water fun offered every day at the & surprises! Children’s Museum. Hands-on components include 7-foot diameter water mover, dam building, rain meander, water fall, build-a-fountain, hand pumps, & shaved ice tables th 4 of July celebrations At Point State Park Yinzer and Lil’ Yinzer Fun Run Downtown. Gates open August 19th 8am at 100 Art Rooney Ave Downtown at 2pm with 5K Registration is $30 entertainment through August 18th and beginning at 5pm and $35 after August 18th. Lil' fireworks display at Yinzer Fun Run is $15 through August 18th and 9:35pm. $20 after August 18th. Admission is free!
PARENT TO PARENT SUPPORT IN THE PITTSBURGH AREA
MUMS Parent to Parent Network 412-221-5788
ABOARD’s Autism Connection of PA 412-827-9385
Parent-to-Parent of PA 888-727-2706
P AGE 17 FUN STUFF TO DO WITH KIDS
POPSICLE CRAFT LADYBUG ROCKS
THERAPEUTIC CONNECTION: THERAPEUTIC CONNECTION: Color identification, sensory integration, Color identification, sensory integration, fine motor skills, imaginative play skills. fine motor skills, imaginative play skills, outdoor play. ITEMS YOU WILL NEED: Colored felt or foam sheets ITEMS YOU WILL NEED: Popsicle cut-out for tracing (cardstock or construction paper) Smooth oval rocks Popsicle sticks Patio/outdoor paint (black, white, bright colors) Glitter Paint brush Pom pom balls Paint dish Scissors Toothpick Glue Outdoor mod podge/sealer/patio clear coat to protect Marker
Step 1: Parents- make a popsicle cut-out for tracing Step 1: Paint rock(s) bright color. (use cardstock or construction paper). Step 2: Allow to dry. Step 2: Trace popsicle cut-out on felt/foam sheet. Step 3: Use black paint to create face on ladybug Step 3: Cut out traced popsicle. (using paint brush). Step 4: Glue popsicle stick onto foam/felt popsicle. Step 4: With opposite end of paint brush (non-brush side), dip in black paint and create black spots on top of the ladybug. Step 5: Use glue to add glitter and pom poms for design. Step 5: Allow to dry. Step 6: Allow to dry Step 6: With opposite end of paint brush (non-brush side), dip in Step 7: Use popsicle for imaginative play (pretend food items). white paint and create eyes on face of the ladybug.
Step 7: Allow to dry. Step 8: With a toothpick, dip tip in black paint, dab a dot on each white spot to create eyes.
Step 9: Allow to dry.
Step 10: Apply sealer to entire rock.
References: Step 11: Place in garden/outdoors. Step 12: Play a game of imaginative play www.craftsbyamanda.com with the ladybugs in the garden.
P AGE 18 JUST FOR FUN
“Every person needs to take one day away. A day in which one consciously separates the past from the future….Each person deserves a day away in which no problems are confronted, no solutions searched for. Each of us needs to withdraw from the cares which will not withdraw from us.” ― Maya Angelou, Wouldn't Take Nothing for My Journey Now
“I definitely need vacation !!!! Below are the reasons I need a I would say Myrtle Beach !!! Just 5 days !;) Vacation. All I do is go to work and then Vacation is a good way to go away and reenergized ... spend my evenings and weekends driving sometimes that long weekend "go away " my kids around to their sports games and -also works for me !!” dance competitions. I need a beach and a drink! Haha!!
“Vacations are great self care and we all need self care to keep our sanity! My ideal vacation involves fun, relaxing, and just enjoying being in the moment with my family”
P AGE 19 CONTACT INFORMATION
WHO TO CALL FOR WHAT:
ADMISSIONS DEPARTMENT (REFERRALS FOR ALL PROGRAMS/SITES): Phone: 412-342-2270 Fax: 412-347-3237 Email: [email protected]
EAST OFFICE—PENN HILLS (BHRS, WK, CA): Site Manager: Carrie Winner 412-573-0141 x3405 or [email protected] Program Coordinator: Robin Veshosky 724-443-8900 or [email protected] Staffing Supervisor: Frank Grazulis 412-573-0141 or [email protected] WK Therapist: Dan Klanica 412-573-0141 or [email protected] Authorization Specialist: Angee Knepshield 412-573-0141 or [email protected] Site Assistant: Laurel Zeigler 412-573-0141 or [email protected]
NORTH OFFICE—WEXFORD (BHRS, WK, CA, OP): Site Manager: Nicole Gannon 724-443-8900 or [email protected] Program Coordinator: Christine Wojnar or [email protected] Staffing Supervisor: Jacki Maskrey 724-443-8900 or [email protected] WK Therapist: Mallory Bastin 724-443-8900 or [email protected] Authorization Specialist: Mary Jean Goodrich 724-443-8900 or [email protected] Site Assistant: Audrey Hodos 724-443-8900 or [email protected]
SOUTH OFFICE—BRIDGEVILLE (BHRS, WK, CA, OP): Site Manager: Chris Wesling 412-564-1172 [email protected] Program Coordinator: Angeline Buczkowski 412-564-1172 or [email protected] Staffing Supervisor: Krista Baselj 412-564-1172 or [email protected] WK Therapist: Jenny Taylor 412-564-1172 or [email protected] Authorization Specialist: Jennifer Stoner 412-564-1172 or [email protected] Site Assistant: Ashley Payseure 412-564-1172 or [email protected]
OUTPATIENTSERVICES AND CREATIVE ARTS: Assistant Director of Outpatient Services: Janet Spink 412-310-5850 or [email protected] Creative Arts Program Supervisor: Katie Harrill 412-706-2596 or [email protected] PCIT Supervisor: Megan Hoffman 412-600-7940 or [email protected]
DIRECTOR OF AUTISM SERVICES: Kate Pompa: 724-443-4888 or [email protected]
TO OFFER FEEDBACK, SUGGESTIONS OR TO FILE A COMPLAINT, PLEASE CONTACT OUR PROGRAM EVALUATOR:
Constance Blaniar : 412-527-6582 or [email protected]
Our mission is to provide transformational support for children and families as they strive to become more independent, responsible and caring members of the
community.
WE’RE ON THE WEB! WESLEY SPECTRUM BEHAVIORAL HEALTH www.wfspa.org
SERVICE LINE
Wexford 16055 Perry Highway, Building 3, Wexford, PA 15090
Penn Hills 121 Erhardt Dr Pittsburgh, PA 15235
Bridgeville 3117 Washington Pike Bridgeville, PA 15017
https://www.facebook.com/WesleySpectrum