WORKSHOPS

For the Workshop SCHEDULE, click here

Mini Workshops (Two to Three Hours)

• Assessment Process
  An overview of the importance of parent input and ways to ensure that the whole child is being considered when determining appropriate services and placement options.
• Disaster Preparedness
  An introduction to the concept of disaster preparedness for parents of children with special health care needs, this workshop describes the need for a disaster preparedness plan and highlights specific concerns related to children with disabilities.
• IEP Tips and Pointers
  Tried and true tips on how to positively advocate for your children, strengthen the relationships between parents and service agencies, and help create the appropriate IEP program. 

1/2-Day Workshops

• Basic Rights
  An overview of the four basic rights and protections under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), a brief overview of Section 504 of the Vocational Rehabilitation Act, and an explanation of record keeping and the assessment process. 
• Transition to Public School
  Geared to parents of two-to-four-year-olds transitioning into the public school system. Includes information on the assessment process, placement visits, IEPs and communication skills to meet the challenges of the many choices available to our children.

One-Day Workshops

• IEP Rights and Strategies
  An overview of the rights and protections mandated for special needs children by the IDEA and Section 504 of the Vocational Rehabilitation Act.
• Section 504 Accommodations
  Covers Section 504 of the Vocational Rehabilitation Act, an overview of the law and how the system can be effective for students who may not qualify under IDEA but may need accommodations. 
• Transition to Adult Services
  Individual Transition Plan within the IEP, future planning, how to coordinate services from school to adult services, supported employment, independent living, recreation, and postsecondary education. 

Assistive Technology Workshops

• AT 101 (2 hours)
  This workshop provides information on the laws as they pertain to assistive technology, the AT evaluation process, and a some ideas for writing AT into the IEP It also includes a brief introduction to the various types of AT available. This workshop is free.
• Introduction to Assistive Technology (2 hours)
  We will introduce various types of assistive technology ranging from "low tech" to "high tech" interventions. Items will range from pencil grips to augmentative communication devices. This workshop is free. 
• Assistive Technology for Early Learning (2 hours)
  Topics will include software that facilitates early learning, toy/book adaptations, switch access software, and much more. Come and see how your little ones can benefit from assistive technology.
• Low Cost/No Cost Assistive Technology (4 hours)
  Assistive technology doesn't have to be expensive. There are many websites that provide free or low cost programs and games. Learn about free and Open Source educational softward that's available online. We will also show you some practical, inexpensive ways to create your own adaptations. You will leave with numerous great ideas and websites for technology and adaptations that are either free or cost very little to make or buy.
• Toy Tips: Ideas and Options for Children with Special Needs (2 hours)
  Buying toys for your special needs child can sometimes be difficult and frustrating. We will give you suggestions as to which types of toys work best for your child. Learn how to adapt a wide variety of toys. Get ideas on inexpensive ways to adapt everyday items such as books, puzzles and much more!
• Assistive Technology Overview (1/2 day)
  Information on various hardware adaptations and specialized software for persons with disabilities. We will cover "low tech" items such as adapting books, toys, etc. and "high tech" items such as screen readers and augmentative communication devices. This workshop is FREE.
• Reading and Writing Solutions Through Assistive Technology (1/2 day)
  We will cover high and low tech reading and writing solutions. Some of the topics include screen readers, abbreviated expansion, word prediction, talking word processors, portable word processors, storybook software, and more. This workshop will include a "hands-on" portion in the TECH lab.