June 2009 The Newsletter of the Autism Society of Mecklenburg County Chapter www.asncmeck.org

Mark your calendar for our end of the year celebration - Thursday, June 4th!!

We have the food, we have the games, and we have the prizes!! Doors open at 7:00 Announcements– 7:15 All we need is you. Party– 7:25– 9:00

Marquen su calendario para nuestra fiesta de fin de año: el jueves 4 de junio! Tenemos la comida, los juegos y premios! Lo único que necesita- mos es que lleguen ustedes! Las puertas se abrirán a las 7:00; los anun- cios se darán a las 7:15; la fiesta será de 7: 25– 9:00

**Free Childcare is Available** Child- care is available for the first 12 children registered. Those not registered will be turned away. We must insure the safety of all children under our care during the meeting, so we must know how many will be in attendance before each meeting. To register for childcare, contact Kathy Sny- der by Mon. June. 1st @ 704-904-0456 or [email protected] .

Inside this Issue

President’s Note 2 Calendar 3 ASNC– News 4-5 Meeting Location: -4411 Sharon at Morrison Blvd, Charlotte ASNC –MCC News 6 28211. (Across from South Park Mall – Cheesecake Factory side) Use Morrison Blvd. Entrance to park around back. Our room is near Teacher Appreciation Notes 7-10 the middle of the building. Enter via the doors from the portico. May FACT Group Outing 11 Handicap access outside on the right hand side entrance. Parent Education 12-14 Summer Options 15

Cool Stuff on Line 16 Membership Form Last pg

1 June 2009 The Newsletter of the Autism Society of North Carolina Mecklenburg County Chapter www.asncmeck.org

President’s Note:

Time is up!! Lately, those words have had special meaning to many of us:

• some of our children who are done with EOGs or exams. Relief is finally here.

• parents thinking about the end of the school year and looking forward (or not) to a the change in schedule that summer brings; reality is kicking in.

• readers of the print copy of this newsletter, this is the last mass print issue you will receive. Only two people have con- tacted me to say they can not access the newsletter on line; so only those two will be receiving a print copy in the future. If you meant to contact me, but forgot, please do so now. And by the way, time is not up for sending in your membership for ASNC. IF more of you would become members, we would not have to stop making print newsletters. We can’t af- ford to keep printing for free. If you can afford to join, you might think of the charitable benefit you are extending to oth- ers who can afford to join due to job loss as your dues help pay for things like the print copy of the newsletter.

• those of you who are used to attending our meetings at Sharon United Methodist– we will be meeting a new location which is more centrally located: Myer’s Park Baptist. We will include a map on the website and you have the whole sum- mer to find our new location before our September 3rd meeting.

This is a transitional time for our board as well. In the past few months, we have alerted you to the fact that some of our board members need to step away. We have someone who is interested in assisting as treasurer and a few others who would like to help with projects. At the June Meeting, we will be holding elections. If you are interested in serving on the board, please let me know ASAP so that your name can be added to the ballot.

With Aware Fare under out belts, we are moving on to our next fundraiser. Our chapter is fortunate enough to have been ap- proached by the Charlotte Rugby Football Club who is naming us as the beneficiary of their upcoming Charlotte Interna- tional Rugbyfest– Tackling Autism. The event is June 19-20th at the club’s facilities near Mountain Island Lake off Bel- haven Blvd. Yes, that is Father’s Day weekend– hmm might be a nice present for Dad a day with the guys drinking beer {responsibly of course}… They will have activities for kids too. Who knows this could foster a new extreme interest focus in Rugby for your kiddo. We are committed to volunteer at the event– so here is another chance for you to help. If the vision of beer, and buff smelly men exerting brute force appeals to you– hey we can use your help. If spending time at a fine dining establishment is more to your liking– we can help you out with that too. Any interested people should contact Joe Nestor– [email protected] for more details! It should be a fun event with kid friendly activities too.

For those of you whose summer plans are still very much up in the air, some of our local summer camps still have room. Mecklenburg County’s Therapeutic Park and Rec Program has spaces available and so does Autism Services of Mecklenburg County’s Camp Dakota. You may want to check the Summer Parent Fair Resource Guide, which is listed in the March news- letter to see if any of the opportunities listed still have appropriate openings. If you are unable to use these programs, you might consider are joining our chapter’s weekly “Fun Friday Outings”- which are not necessarily held on Fridays. To be added to our list, please contact Susan Wild ([email protected]). Other options include: bowling at Carolina Lanes in Matthews, skating with our group at the Charlotte Sports Center, dollar morning matinees at many theatres around Charlotte, or visiting any of our local county spray parks. Dads, we have a great Dad’s group. If you look at the newsletter on-line, you can learn about their upcoming events. Another option you might consider is investigating Vacation Bible School at some of the churches who have taken part in our All Faith’s Initiative, the local joint venture that ASNC has taken with the Autism Foundation of the Carolina’s. By going to the AFC website, www.autismfoundationcarolinas.org and clicking on making a difference, and then clicking on the All Faith’s Initiative to see the list of churches who currently serve other families with children on the spectrum. This summer should be an interesting change and it may very well lead to some new comfortable routines for your family.

Remember, if medical emergencies arise over the summer, Carolina’s Medical Center has the special needs hotline that was created especially for those with autism. Call the number to let them help you with ER trips or scheduled procedures. For other situations, contact our Parent Advocates: Kim Tizzard and Nancy Popkin. Please see page 3 for contact information.

Nancy Nestor, ASNC-MCC President : 704-545-1902 : [email protected]

2 June 2009 The Newsletter of the Autism Society of North Carolina Mecklenburg County Chapter www.asncmeck.org

June Events: July & August Events: June 4th (Th) ASNC-MCC Monthly Support July 1, 8, 15, 22nd, 29th– Bowling at Carolina Lanes in Mtg. End of the Year Party- Matthews– see page 6 for info.

Food, Fun, Games and Door Prizes! 7:00-9:00 Sharon July 13th-17th Lose the Training Wheels Bicycle Camp for United Methodist, 4411 Sharon Rd. Charlotte, 28211 those with Special Needs Metrolina Tradeshow Expo; 7100 Statesville Road. Charlotte, NC 28269. June 8th (M) Reading to Read: The Language/Literacy $185 (Some Scholarships available). Special training Connection- 6:00pm - 8:00pm. Covenant Presbyterian for kids needing specific interventions to learn to Church; 1000 E. Morehead Street, Charlotte, NC 28204. ride. Camp slots for various times available. Go to $50 per family . Register online at www.speechgarden.org/ www.lttwcharlotte.org for application/ details. reading-to-read-literacy-development.html

June 13th (Sa) Sensory Friendly showing of the movie “Up” July 27 & Aug. 3, 10th (M); ASNC-MCC Skating Party– 10:30pm. AMC Concord Mills 24; 8421 Concord Mills Blvd., Charlotte Sports Center,8626 Hankins Road, Charlotte, NC Concord NC 28027. 28269. See page 6 for more info.

June 15th:(M) Free Workshop: Computer Use for Develop- August 3-7th; We Love Acting UP!! mentally Young Children from Birth to 5 years; North Caro- Drama Camp for Special Needs Children lina Assistive Technology Program; 5501 Executive Center 9:30– 11:30; First Baptist Church Mat- Drive (across from Suite 105 in Board room); Charlotte, 28212 thews; God’s Blessings– Be Attitudes! ; Children ages 6-12 Time: 12:30-3:30 pm; .Audience: Therapists, teachers, service must be moderate to high functioning, fully toilet trained; mod- providers, parents; presenters- Molly Shannon OTR/L, ATP and erate verbal skills and have good receptive language skills. Tammy Pereboom, PT, ATP; RSVP: Phone 704-566-2899 or Cost: $125.00. Go to: [email protected] http://weloveactingup.com/summercampinformation.aspx

June 17th & 24th (W) ASNC-MCC Bowling at Carolina Aug 22nd (Sa) FACT Science Saturday with Lanes, 11210 Brigmon Ln. Matthews, 28105 Discovery Place: 10:00 - 11:30 AM 10:00– 11:00 every Wednesday til August 12th; $5.00 per game Baptist Church; 2001 Selwyn Avenue, Charlotte and shoes for those with autism. Bumpers available. 28207. $25 (Some Scholarships available). To June 19th– 20th: Tackling Autism: Charlotte International register, call Terri Ward at Discovery Place-704- RUGBYFEST 2009; Charlotte Rugby Club, 2911 Bellhaven Cir., Charlotte NC 28214; cost: $10.00 after 11:00; $20.00 for the whole day; kids 12 and under free; To volunteer or get more SAVE THIS information contact Joe Nestor- 704-545-1902;\ EMERGENCY INFORMATION!!!! [email protected]

June 22 & 29 (M); ASNC-MCC Skating Party– Charlotte Medical Emergencies or Hospital Sports Center,8626 Hankins Road, Charlotte, NC 28269. Ph: Procedures at 704-597-7311 near North Lake Mall. Say you are with the Au- Carolina’s Medical Center tism Society and get a special price: $5.00 per skater. Cost in- cludes skate rental. 11:45- 2:00; contact Susan - 704-512-3286 [email protected] ; see page 5 for more information 24 hour Special Assistance Care line for those needing

dental, medical or emergency room service for their June 26th (F) Future Horizons Presents: Dr. Jed Baker autistic family member at Carolina’s Medical Center. Conference - No More Meltdowns: Handling Challenging Behaviors & Teaching Social Skills - 7:00am - 4:30pm. Em- bassy Suites Hotel Charlotte-Concord Golf Resort & Spa, 5400 ASNC Parent Advocates: John Q. Hammons Drive NW, Concord, NC 28027. $130; per- For Assistance with community issues involving sons with Autism -$70. Register online at www.FHautism.com your loved ones with autism:

Nancy Popkin or Kim Tizzard ****ASNC-MCC does not promote any activity or [email protected] event. We simply offer information. Please note it is [email protected] your responsibility to decide what works best for your 704-894-9678 family’s specific needs.

3 June 2009 The Newsletter of the Autism Society of North Carolina Mecklenburg County Chapter www.asncmeck.org

News from ASNC…

Bullying Bill Passes the Senate and the House Education Committee

The NC Senate passed SB 526: School Violence Prevention Act (Bullying Bill) earlier this month, then the bill entered the House for study. It has passed one study group and is moving on to the House Judiciary 1 Committee before moving on to the House Floor for final vote. You can help with this bill by: • Contacting your representative in the House, • Briefly sharing any personal story that shows them the need for this legislation. Give them permission to share your story during discussions. • Asking them to vote for this bill.

To find your Representative, please click here. Please contact Maureen Morrell for assistance and to copy her with your correspondence so that she can continue to support you in the future as she works daily with your representatives. Her e-mail address is: [email protected]

Budget Update

Thanks to all of you who attended the Coalition Rally on May 20 and spoke with your representatives. The Health and Human Services Appropriations Sub-Committee released their budget recommendations on May, 28th. The proposed budget reductions are:

• Cuts $100s of millions in mental health, developmental disability and addictive disease • Cuts $50 Million in state funded services and $16 million in CAP-MR/DD state funds • Cuts $4 million to “non-core community services” • Cuts $490 million from the overall Medicaid budget, freezes CAP slots, and reduces all Medicaid provider rates 4% • Eliminates community support services- the clinical home and support for thousands of individuals. • Many vaguely written and yet to be defined “reductions” and “adjustments”( $74 million) that we are still researching

The House budget writers have proposed these cuts in an attempt to balance the budget which has been severely affected by the economic crisis in our state. But these proposed cuts to community services for people with autism, developmen- tal disabilities and many other North Carolinians will not help us save money. Instead, these cuts will shred our commu- nity services system and result in higher financial and human costs. People with autism and their families are often only one life event away from a crisis. We must convince our legislators that these proposed cuts will be that tipping point for many families. You can help your Legislator do the right thing! Take action by:

• Calling or emailing your NC House Legislator. To find your legislator, click here. * Call or email the Democrat and Republican House Leadership: Speaker of the House Joe Hackney, office phone 919-733-3451. House Majority Leader Hugh Holliman, office phone 919-715-0873. House Minority Leader Paul Stam, office phone 919-733-2962

Keep your message short and respectful, but be honest.

• Tell them how these cuts will affect you, your family or those you serve. These stories are the most powerful message we have. • Tell them that these services and supports keep people in their homes and communities. • Tell them these cuts will put people in crisis, increasing both financial burdens and human suffering. • Tell them the state cannot cut its way out of a $4.8 billion dollar budget hole. • Tell them as a taxpayer, you are willing to pay higher taxes to make sure people have services and supports. This is a proposed budget and can be changed if we make our voices heard.

Also, please contact Maureen Morrell for assistance and to copy her with your correspondence so that she can continue to support you in the future as she works daily with your representatives. Her e-mail address is: [email protected]

4 June 2009 The Newsletter of the Autism Society of North Carolina Mecklenburg County Chapter www.asncmeck.org News from ASNC continued… National news: Autism Treatment Acceleration Act

A companion bill for the Autism Treatment Acceleration Act (ATAA) has been introduced in the House. This federal landmark piece of legislation will enhance the quality of life for individuals on the autism spectrum and their families by funding autism programs for lifespan services, insurance coverage and autism research that connects to the provision of services.

Three key features of the bill: • Demonstration projects to provide an array of services to adults with autism spectrum disorders. • Provisions on autism insurance reform that require insurance companies across the country to provide coverage for medically necessary, evidence-based autism treatments and therapies. • A Network for Autism Spectrum Disorders Research and Services to quickly move what researchers are learning about autism to where it can be incorporated into services for people with autism and their families.

Please contact your U.S. Representative and ask him or her to co-sponsor the bill. To search for your representative click here and use the zip code search feature at the top left corner of the page. For more information about this bill click here.

Researchers Need Help

Dr. Jack Scott of Florida Atlantic University is conducting a research project and needs to hear from parents conducting home programs. The survey is primarily for parents. However, Dr. Scott is also asking for behavior analysts and support agencies to help forward this information along to potential families. The online survey takes about 45–60 minutes to complete. The survey runs through the end of June. This study has been approved by the Institutional Review Board at Florida Atlantic University and assigned number 09-117. If you prefer a paper copy, you can request a number of sets by sending an email to [email protected]. Paper sets have the survey, the parent letter, and a prepaid return mailer.

To participate in the survey click here.

Autism Society of America’s Local Offerings

Don’t Forget the Sensory –Friendly Movies shown each month at AMC Concord Mills 24. The Autism Society of America has teamed up with AMC Entertain- ment to provide sensory friendly movies each month. This month’s movie is UP! This month the special viewing of this movie will be at 10:00 AM at the AMC Concord Mills 24; 8421 Concord Mills Blvd, Concord, 28027. We hope your family is able to take part in this national offering brought to us locally and hosted by ASNC. Next month’s movie and the August movie will be listed in the calen- dar of our website.

5 June 2009 The Newsletter of the Autism Society of North Carolina Mecklenburg County Chapter www.asncmeck.org

Here is your chance to come out and support our chapter while having fun at the same time!! On June 19th. & 20th. the Char- lotte Rugby Club will host the 1st. Annual International Rugby Festival at Skillbeck Park, supporting the Autism Society of North Carolina - Mecklenburg County Chapter. Events include:

st. • Live broadcast of the 1 South Africa vs. Lions Test match. • Rugby match between The Southern USA Springboks and The Southern USA Lions • Live Music, Kids Entertainment & Rally Dinner • International Beer Garden - great local vendors specializing in international products.

You can support ASNC—MCC either by purchasing tickets or volunteering to be part of the ASNC-MCC team that will be working at the event. Additional details of the event can be found at the Charlotte Rugby website: www.charlotterugby.com. Tickets may be purchased online at this website and at the June 4th. support meeting. Please con- tact Joe Nestor, [email protected] / (704)-545-1902, if you have questions about the event or want to volunteer to work at the event.

Ticket Prices: Kids 12 and under are FREE $10 - General Admission after 11AM $20 - Club: Full Day Admission including live broadcast of the Lions vs. Springboks $150 - Reserved Club Table for 8 $50 - VIP Tent (Includes Full Day admission, Food and Beverages) $375 - VIP Tent Reserved Table for 8

Summer Skating: Monday Afternoons Correction: A mistake was made in the May Issue of “Autism Mat- ters”. Susannah Hough, was pictured with Nancy Nestor rather than Whit- June 22nd & 29th, July27th, ney Griffin for the ASNC Chapter of the Year Award. We are sorry about August 3rd & 10th the incorrect identification.

Charlotte Sports Center 8626 Hankins Road, Summer Bowling is Back!! Charlotte, NC 28269 Wednesday mornings– 10:00-11:00 AM 11:45– 2:00 June 17th– August 12th Lots of fun and exercise, plus a great opportunity to Carolina AMF Lanes connect with parents from our group. Mention the 11210 Brigmon Ln. Autism Society and get a special price of $5.00 per Matthews, NC 28105 skater -including skate rental. Siblings, family mem- bers and friends are welcome! RSVP is appreciated Cost: $5.00 for game/shoes for those but not required. Contact Susan Wild— with autism; $10.00 for adults [email protected] for more information. Bring the kids, send the CAP worker. See you there!! 6 June 2009 The Newsletter of the Autism Society of North Carolina Mecklenburg County Chapter www.asncmeck.org

Teacher Appreciation Notes:

Each year, ASNC-MCC helps parents honor those who have shown so much dedication to our children throughout the year, by publishing notes of appreciation. The following is a sample of the many notes we received from Mecklenburg County parents. Due to space limitations, the entries have been edited. Unaltered texts can be read on our website (www.asncmeck.org) and by clicking on the June 2009 Autism Matters. If you do not find a note in this print copy, please know that parents do value your work, the submission may have been sent past print deadline or the parents may have been un- able to express the level of gratitude in words. For all of our school staff– we are all grateful that you have chosen to work with our children!

Smithfield, Mc Alpine, AG Middle Our young man has been truly blessed with many great teachers. We are so grateful to all of them: Ms Bruce and Ms Fitzpatrick at Smithfield who set his feet on the right path, Ms Tiffany Hogue and Ms Turkdamar at McAlpine who showed him the way and the wonderful team at A G Middle School who have been there with love and understanding to keep him on the right track into his teen years. You have all something to be very proud of! You have made our Brent into a fine, happy young man and we are forever grateful. - Brent Roberts and family

Lincoln Heights To the teachers at Lincoln Heights, we would like to extend an enormous from the bottom of our hearts, THANK-YOU to Ms. Lacy, Ms. Crouse, Ms. Little, Ms. Figueroa and Ms. Austin for all your daily patience, hard work, commitment and support with our son, Jonathan. This has been a wonderful year!! I truly appreciate all of you!!!!! - Jonathan and Lisa Richardson

Selwyn Elementary Kate Kershaw and Bethany Nettles are our son Hunter’s wonderful and loving teachers at Selwyn Elementary. The six special children in their class have grown so much under their care this year. In nine months, Ms. Kershaw and Ms. Net- tles have accomplished more than we ever imagined with Hunter. His communication has improved so much – it’s amazing to us and others! The patience and commitment of these two teachers has given Hunter another wonderful school year at Selwyn. We truly appreciate all that they have done for him this year. The rest of the “A-Team” at Sel- wyn – Bernice Clark, Carolyn Jones, Kim Eley, Amelia Worley, and Gwen Robinson – also deserves thanks. They work so well as a team. Each child is special to them and is loved every day. Thank you! Thank you! - Amy and Jimmy Emmanuel

Myers Park High School This is my older son’s fifth year at Myers Park High School and my younger son’s third year. They have had the same two teachers, Ms. Sowell and Ms. Zalecki, from the beginning. I feel fortunate for this consistency and I deeply appreciate the ways both Ms. Sowell and Ms. Zal- ecki continue to find new ways to involve the students in activities at the school. They seek out regular education teachers who are receptive to including our students. This year my older son is in a Marketing class and even gave a presentation. It was a lot more visual than verbal but I was thrilled and it made him proud. The teachers always have the student’s best interest at heart. Thank you for that! They get great support from teacher assistants Jackie Nichols and Tanya Ray and one-on-one assistant Debi Waldrop. I recently attended a school outing with many of the parents of stu- dents and every parent expressed how grateful they are for these great teachers. - Lois Stickell

McKee Road Elementary Ms Maureen & Ms Karen at McKee Road Elementary, Thank you so much for all that you have done for Bewlay this year. Her progress has been amazing, and she has clearly been very happy with you. I really hope she can be in your class next year too because it has been such a great fit! Ms. Mea & Ms Carrie at McKee Road Elementary, Thank you for Bewlay’s OT and speech this year. We are grateful to have you working with her! - Ken and Christy Koury

7 June 2009 The Newsletter of the Autism Society of North Carolina Mecklenburg County Chapter www.asncmeck.org

TEACHER APPRECIATION CONTINUED…

Myers Park High School Mrs. Montini (Algebra II), We cannot even begin to thank you for the patient and welcoming atmosphere you have created in your classroom! Alan feels so comfort- able with you as his teacher, and you helped make a very scary transition really smooth! Maybe some day he'll even get to meet Kelvin! All the best for continued happiness and success; Mrs. Morrow (study skills teacher), Thank you for helping Alan adjust to Myers Park. We are very grateful for your patience and understanding with him. We also appreciate your tenacity, as others in the past have just given in. Best wishes for an enjoyable and relaxing summer! Coach Ruark, (football coach), Words cannot sufficiently express our gratitude for what you have done for our son, Alan. Without your amazing compassion, he would have made it to Myers Park. You are an extraordinary person, and we are so thankful that you chose to share your kindness with us. Ms. Alston (compliance director Myers Park High), We want to thank you for all that you have done to make Alan's ex- perience at Myers Park a positive one. Your professionalism and expertise are only exceeded by your kindness and em- pathy. You have gone over and above to make sure that Alan is taken care of, and we are very grateful. Mrs. Hampson (asst principal Myers Park), Thank you for going to bat for our son Alan to ensure that he is successful at Myers Park. We know that you went out of your way to accommodate him, and it has helped him to gain the confidence he needed to stick with it. We are very grateful for your help. The Cremisi Family

Alexander Graham Middle School I am thrilled to have this opportunity to express my family’s sincere appreciation to the teaching team in the Autistic classrooms at Alexander Graham Middle School , My son is fortunate to have Ms. Heather Schenning, Mr Jeff McGunegle, and Ms. Lora Caudill as a motivated team of teachers in his classes. Mr. McGunegle has seen a spark in my son with respect to his math acumen that has enabled him to improve significantly this school year. I am thrilled that Ms. Caudill is bringing popular young reader literature to her Autistic classrooms with intensive studies on the Harry Potter and Twilight series of books. Ms. Schenning is my son’s homeroom teacher, and she has provided boundless energy in all of the other educational areas to round out my son’s academic curriculum. Kudos to this talented team of teachers from the Premo family!

James Martin Middle School Thank you Ms. Ledford, Mrs. Saunders, Mr. Fellows, and Mrs. Huff for everything you did for me in the 8th grade. Thank you to Mr. Ron George -- I miss you already. I will try to do you proud in High School next year. - Michael Martin– rising eighth grader

Queen’s Grant Community School My son Chase Bost has attended Queens Grant for the last 3 years, 6th grade through 8th grade. His time at Queens Grant has been amazing simply because of his teachers. Mrs. Tonya Watts is the EC Coordinator and has directed his every step while allowing him to develop his independence. Mrs. West, Mrs. Thompson, Mrs. Miller and Mrs. Brown have made my days at work bearable. Mrs. Ryder (gym), Mr. Becker (chorus), and Mrs. Ferguson (Drama and Go Green) have all been an instrument in Chase’s success. Ms. Morrin and Mrs. Robinson thank you for providing a safe and re- spectful environment for Chase. I Champion the work that you all do everyday and Thank You sincerely. You will be greatly missed but fondly remembered! ~Trenesa Bost

8 June 2009 The Newsletter of the Autism Society of North Carolina Mecklenburg County Chapter www.asncmeck.org

TEACHER APPRECIATION CONTINUED…

Independence High School This is our first year at Independence High School. Kevin and I had a difficult start this year, between the changes going to High School and medicine not working for him at the start of school. Communication with his teacher about his day is highly important to me. The biggest part of his day is at school, so I need to know things- like if he was awake and alert or overly sleepy. I was blessed when Courtney Perrine joined Independence High about a month into the year. She's been my rock at school. Kevin's loves her and I've come to trust her. - Belinda Keal

JV Washam Elementary Bonnie Norris of JV Washam Elementary is the best preK teacher! She understands our little ones, and personalizes her teaching so each child benefits, whatever their ability level. I am told that since she came to JV Washam a few years ago, she has completely turned our school's Bright beginnings program around! Her teaching is well structured, promotes positive self esteem and independence in the outside world. She pays attention to details and communicates thoroughly with parents. Bonnie Norris exemplifies character! - Trina Roeder

McKee Road Elementary It would be really hard for me to thank one person, because it has really taken a whole team of people to make sure my son has been so successful this year. So from the bottom of my heart, I want to say Thank you to Mr. Price, and Mrs. Ward, for expert leadership. Mrs. K-T and Mrs. Gardner for Patience and Understanding and the willingness to try different things until we found something that worked. Mrs.Oudin, and Mrs. Flynn, for spending countless hours figuring out what to do next! Mrs. Davis, for instinctively knowing what to do to make things better. Miss Elam for making speech fun. Erica Ficker for guiding us in the right direction and doing what was right for my son. Mr. Smith, Mrs. McElveen and Mrs. Evans for giving him the guidance to try something new and help him be successful. Sherry Knowles for taking the time out of your busy schedule every morning to come talk to my son. You are all wonderful and I am forever grateful to you for making Kindergarten a HUGE success! Sincerely, Kim Atkinson

Myers Park High There are not enough words to thank the staff at Myers Park High School for all they have done to support my son, Anders. First and foremost, Anders’ father and I would like to recognize Mrs. Phyllis Alston who has guided us and supported him all four years of high school along with speech therapist, Kathy Bender. Phylis Hampson and Kristen Hodges have also helped in the administrative and guidance offices. Wanda Sowell, his case worker for three years, and April Morrow, for one year, have my life-long appreciation. His teachers this year also deserve applause for pa- tience and guidance: James Elliott, James Scott, Cathy Eagle, Rick Stack, Mary McCarley, Chris Murphy, and Leo- nard Cook. We also know Mr. Tom Spivey, principal, works behind the scenes and supports his tremendous staff. We would also like to thank the staff and the parents of the students at Myers Park for creating a kind, compas- sionate, and supportive environment. My advice to parents of future students in high school would be to advocate for their child but to listen to and trust the staff and be realistic and flexible in knowing what works for one child will likely not work for all. - Betsy Gustafson

9 June 2009 The Newsletter of the Autism Society of North Carolina Mecklenburg County Chapter www.asncmeck.org

Teacher Appreciation Continued….

McKee Road Elementary

We feel so fortunate to have spent several years at McKee Road Elementary. In the past few years, Carol Delong and Penny McCoy have done a great job balancing high expectations with supportive structure for our son Paul. With almost 30 years of experience working with autism, they know when to push for more, when to encourage Paul to try, and when to reward an unsuccessful attempt in both academic and behavioral areas. They are skilled in differentiating between “boy” behavior and autism. This skill has made them a true asset in guiding regular education staff as they improve their ability to draw success from Paul. Ms. Karen and Ms. Kathy, who have shepherded him in his regular ed. classes have been a God-send. Others who have been a tremendous help include: Erica Ficker- who saw the possibilities in Paul’s potential and challenged others to see it too; Mea Kleinschrodt- who continues to be Paul’s guardian angel having worked with him since kindergarten. Because of Mrs. Edwards, Paul has a new love of music and can almost keep a steady beat; Mrs. McElveen helped him discover a love a working with clay and a comfort with drawing; Mrs. Alford helped Paul expand his taste in reading beyond sports and NASCAR and Mr. Smith who has been another source of sup- port for Paul and those learning to work with him. We are thankful beyond words to Mr. Price, Mrs. Morgan, and Mrs. Carriker all of whom gave Paul the opportunity to be part of the regular 5th grade experience- to come to their classes, to go on overnight field trips {with Mom as his personal chaperone of course!}, and to develop strong friendships which will support him as he moves to middle school and beyond. Nancy and Joe Nestor

Selwyn Elementary; AFC/ Siskey Y Afterschool; Queens Music Therapy, Arc of NC, Easter Seals, Child and Family, ASNC-MCC; and AFC Ashley Purdy-Prusiensky ~ Afterschool Inclusion Teacher at Siskey YMCA’s Hemby Activity Center and Camp Boo- merang Coordinator Ashley is dedicated, energetic, knowledgeable, and a favorite of my son Kalani. I know for a fact he can’t wait to see his beloved “Miss Ashley” again.

Treva Collins ~ Music Therapy Clinical Practicum Supervisor at Queens University of Charlotte Treva makes sure Kalani is paired with just the right person for music sessions. The last two semesters have been very enjoyable and relaxing for him. With Treva’s care and direction, Kalani made his musical debut at the Spring Recital last month.

Martha Teklemariam ~ Support Broker, Arc of NC Martha works hard to connect us to available resources in the community. She is always available, smiling, and thinking up solutions.

Darlene Smith ~ Respite Provider, Easter Seals UCP Darlene has been part of the family for over three years. We truly lucked out when she found us. It would take pages to list the things she has taught and shown Kalani and myself. We love you Darlene!

Kimberly Eley and Amelia Worley ~ A-Team at Selwyn Elementary This dynamic duo does it all. These two ladies work in sync to make sure our boys and girls stay on task and get the best FAPE available.

Michelle Pentz, Speech-Language Pathologist at Child and Family Development Michelle has been working with my son Kalani for over three years. It is a clas- sic love-hate relationship. Kalani loves seeing his pretty SLP but hates the actual work part. Luckily, Michelle has tons of tricks up her sleeve to sneak the work in without him realizing it. Bravo!

Nancy Nestor and Lori Schleicher ~ ASNC-MCC and AFC, respectively. When I grow up, I want to be like these two fabulous women. The end.

10 June 2009 The Newsletter of the Autism Society of North Carolina Mecklenburg County Chapter

www.asncmeck.org

Fantastic Fact Family Fun!!

We had a great time! Dads and Moms spent some quality time building bridges with their boys at the first Fact Event of the summer. Because of a grant provided by ASNC-MCC, Discovery Place staff received training on autism to tweak their science outreach to meet the needs of our boys. The Au- tism Foundation of the Carolinas found us the workshop space at Myers Park Baptist who offered some play time in their game room after the event. It was a great start! Think about joining us for an- other round of this event in August. We are also planning free tickets to a Game. Contact John Brown, [email protected] to learn more about our Dad’s group and their out- ings. John and Juan Brown pose proudly with their Baltimore Truss Bridge.

Ryan and Frank Sottosanti build a suspension bridge.

11 June 2009 The Newsletter of the Autism Society of North Carolina Mecklenburg County Chapter www.asncmeck.org Charlotte TEACCH Center Local Parent Education 5701 Executive Center Dr.

Opportunities... Suite 108 Charlotte, NC 28212-8836 704 563-4103 704 563-4112 (Fax)

Wednesday Forums: July 29, 2009

The Charlotte TEACCH Center offers one hour morning information forums on a monthly basis. Concurrent sessions allow parents to request enrollment for 1-2 sessions during the morning. Forums are open to family members of clients of the Charlotte TEACCH Center. There is limited seating available and acceptance is on a first come first serve basis. Forums are offered free of charge though there may be a small materials fee for Make and Take Sessions. Some sessions recommend previous participation in an introductory level session. Enrollment is required for all sessions. Participants will be required to sign a confidentiality statement for each forum attended. To enroll in forums please call the Charlotte TEACCH Center at 704-563-4103.

Introduction to TEACCH – Johanna Banks General information and introduction to the TEACCH program including information about diagnosis, assessment, and treatment for individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders.

Introduction to Visual Strategies – Ruth Fuller Introductory information on using schedules, work/activity systems and visually structured teaching activities. Recommended for parents who are interested in individual sessions with TEACCH staff.

Problem-Solving Behaviors – Dr. Joyce Lum This forum provides more information on using visual strategies. Show and tell with visual strategies is followed by group discussion of specific questions that attendees bring. Prior attendance in Intro- duction to Visual Strategies forum is recommended

Introduction to Social Scripts - Ruth Fuller Helping students with autism improve understanding through written stories. This forum will focus on visual strategies that work will for students who have reading skills and the ability to focus on listening to stories.

Parent Kits – Doug DeMeyer Introductory information is recommended for parents who are interested in checking out a Home Teaching Kit. Kits are intended for children who are 2 to 6 years of developmental age. A refundable deposit of $50.00 is required at the time a kit is checked out.

August 26th Topics:

Introduction to TEACCH – Johanna Banks Two sessions available. General information and introduction to the TEACCH program including information about TEACCH services relevant to evaluation, and treatment for individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders.

Introduction to Visual Strategies – Kristen Hendrix Two sessions available. Introductory information about using schedules, work/activity systems and visually struc- tured teaching activities to provide support and improve learning. Recommended for parents who are interested in individual sessions with TEACCH staff.

Future Forum Dates: August 26, 2009, September 30, 2009, October 28, 2009

For more information call Charlotte TEACCH. Check our website for information about future classes.

12 June 2009 The Newsletter of the Autism Society of North Carolina Mecklenburg County Chapter www.asncmeck.org

NCATP—Free Workshop: Computer Use for Developmentally Young Children from Birth to 5 years

This workshop will demonstrate a wide variety of commercial/free software and hardware access options for young and developmentally young children with special needs. Software for early learning, switch/touch screen access, and special needs application programs will be shown. Classics and newer software will be demonstrated and issues for using older software with newer computers will be discussed as well.

When: Monday,June15,2009

Where: North Carolina Assistive Technology Program 5501 Executive Center Drive (across from Suite 105 in the Board room) Charlotte, NC 28212

Time: 12:30 p.m.- 3:30 p.m.

Audience: Therapists, teachers, service coordinators, parents, day care providers, etc.

Presenters: Molly Shannon, OTR/L, ATP and Tammy Pereboom, PT, ATP

RSVP: Phone 704-566-2899 or Fax 704-566-2862 or email [email protected] or [email protected]

13 June 2009 The Newsletter of the Autism Society of North Carolina Mecklenburg County Chapter www.asncmeck.org

Reading to Read: The Language/Literacy Connection!

This two-hour workshop teaches the language/literacy connection, what good readers do when they read, and highlights a program that can be used to strengthen language skills while fostering literacy development.

Join us Monday, June 8, 2009 from 6-8 pm at Covenant Presbyterian Church.

Appropriate for caregivers, teachers and therapists of pre-readers and emergent readers. Perfect content for home practice over the summer!

Participants will learn: · strategies to improve reading readiness · techniques for reading to children · how to teach vocabulary, sentence structure, basic concepts and language skills · techniques for teaching children to 'picture read' · strategies for answering questions about content

Click here to learn more or register for this class.

COST: Only $50 per family or $25 for professionals.

Registrations received on-line one week before this event will avoid the $10 late fee, or you can register until the event and at the door (please register online so we can prepare needed materials).

14 June 2009 The Newsletter of the Autism Society of North Carolina Mecklenburg County Chapter www.asncmeck.org

God's Blessings - Be Attitudes!

Ages 6-12 Drama Camp for Special Needs children Dates: August 3-7 Time: 9:30-11:30 Mon-Fri

Description: The Be Attitudes teach us how a follower of Jesus should think, act and "be." We will take a look and learn the rewards in store for those who abide by them. Parents are invited to share what we have learned on Friday at 11:00 am

REQUIREMENTS: Children attending this camp must be moderate to high functioning. Be Fully Toilet Trained. Also must have at least moderate verbal skills and good receptive language skills.

Cost: $125 (Percentage will be donated to the Autism Society of North Carolina - Union County)

Classes will be held at First Baptist Church Matthews Located Downtown Matthews 185 South Trade Street, Matthews, NC 28105 704-847-9150 www.fbcmatthews.org or send questions to: [email protected]

New Therapeutic Riding Option for Southern Mecklenburg County

If you live in Southern Mecklenburg County and you are on the waiting list for one of the local therapeutic riding stables or you have been driving 20 miles just to ride, a new option has just opened up for you Kasie Trivett has just completed her NARHA Certification and is taking new students at her Weddington Farm. Rosehill Stables is located at 6623 Pros- pect. Rd. Monroe, NC. 28112. If you are interested in lessons, contact Kasie at 704-641-2146 or [email protected].

North County Therapeutic Recreation Options The Towns of Davidson, Huntersville, and Cornelius Parks and Recreation Departments have teamed up and are proud to offer a variety of programs to both youths and adults of all needs and abilities. Our programs are fun and adapted to meet the individual needs of each participant. Previous program offerings include:

Bowling School day out Monkey Joe’s Soccer Water safety Hug-a-Pug Yoga Dance Music and movement T-ball Go Kart rides Game night Art Sand volleyball And much more...

Visit D-Recs for more information on Therapeutic Recreation or contact Therapeutic Recreation Program Coordinator Denise Clark at 704 892-3349 ext. 309.

15 June 2009 The Newsletter of the Autism Society of North Carolina Mecklenburg County Chapter www.asncmeck.org Cool stuff on line for summer fun:

Go to: Charlotte Talks - Browse Archives– Friday, May 15, 2009; Ron Davis was born deeply dyslexic and autistic. He was labeled mentally handicapped at school, endured abuse and could not speak clearly or read at all until he was an adult- even with an IQ of 137. Then Mr. Davis discovered a method to emerge from his Dyslexia and went on to become an engineer, businessman and now an author. He calls his Dyslexia a gift- find out why.

Go to: www.momsfightingautism.com/teleseminar/ for free autism webinar topics each month.

Go to: www.childnett.tv for an archive of free videos, lectures, and stories from the Dan Marino Foundation.

Go to: http://sketchup.google.com/spectrum.html for the Google Project Spectrum website for ASD kids

Go to: www.mousetrial.com for inexpensive computer-based discreet trial activities to build vocabulary.

Go to: http://www.ncwiseowl.org/ for free educational activities at all age levels and subject areas.

Go to: http://www.gpschools.org/ci/depts/library/ckids.htm for the Curious Kids library website.

Go to: http://www.starfall.com/ for activities appropriate for pre-school or early elementary level.

Go to: http://www.bbc.co.uk/schools/laac/menu.shtml or http://pbskids.org/ for more early skills.

For kids Safety- Safety Tat Autism temporary tattoos Many parents have been searching for a means to help strangers identify their child and the fact that s/he has autism. These temporary tattoos may be just the thing to include when you are packing for the beach or a vacation. They can be custom or- dered with your pre-printed information or they can be blank so you can write your cell or other important information. Temporary ICE ( in case of emergency) tattoos are available for older kids as well. For more information go to www.store.safetytat.com/store/ It is the largest on-line autism related bookstore in the country.

No doubt they have something you have been needing to read. ASNC Members get discounts on purchases. Go to www.autismsociety-nc.org to find out more.

16 We Need Your Help - Become a Member! Join the Autism Society of North Carolina Membership Form

ASNC Membership (circle level) Individual/Family - $40 Contributor - $75 Supporter - $150 Agency/Service Provider - $200 Life - $1,250 Student - $25 *indicate ASNC Chapter name below and ASNC will give back $10 to your local chapter.

Name______

Address______

City______State______Zip______

Telephone (h) ______(w) ______

Email______

ASNC Chapter Name______

Type of membership(s) (e.g. asnc-family)______Total enclosed $______

Mail all memberships to ASNC to: Autism Society of North Carolina 505 Oberlin Road, Suite 230, Raleigh, NC 27605-1345 To charge memberships call 1-800-442-2762

ASNC – Mecklenburg County Chapter c/o Nancy Nestor 3846 Lipton Ln Mint Hill, NC 28227

If you would like to receive Autism Matters via email, send a request to [email protected]

Thank you!