What's New
Heart of Texas Autism Network
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Updated 2/7/12 " Refresh" for latest information
| The Heart of Texas Autism Network provides support, encouragement and information for people affected by autism spectrum disorder (ASD), their families and the community. We work to improve the resources available to help people with ASD live, work and participate as fully and independently as possible in our society. There is no charge for membership and no dues. Monthly meetings with speakers usually include free childcare for children with ASD and their siblings, with a reservation. Other activities and programs promote inclusion, independence and participation in the community for all people affected by ASD. For more information on child care, speakers, topics, meeting date, time and location, please visit our meetings page. HOTAN is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization and donations are tax deductible. For a free HOTAN brochure PDF file click here. The 2nd Annual Mardi Gras Celebration of Art The Mardi Gras Celebration of Art weekend will be Friday and Saturday, February 17 and 18, 2012. Art students of all ages and abilities will be participating in this unique event! HOTAN is seeking volunteers for the Fifth Annual Walk for Autism (April 15, 2012) and other fundraisers, programs, community relations, volunteer coordination, and communications (website, newsletters and publicity). Creativity and enthusiasm is needed! To volunteer, please contact Anita Karney by email, or call (214) 766-3260. TAKE ME HOME Program The Take Me Home program is a free registry available to McLennan County residents, for adults and children who may have difficulty communicating due to a developmental or cognitive disability. This could be crucial when a person is unable to speak or identify themselves properly, if they seem disoriented or are acting in an unusual manner. Registration forms are available on the McLennan County Sheriff's website (click here). APPS -- and Funding -- for Autism and Special Needs Families with special needs children may find grants and funding available to help them afford medical treatments, therapies, assistive technologies (INCLUDING iPADS) etc. Click here for a list of resources for funding/grant assistance, as well as a list of apps for mobile technology devices, for autism and special needs. ASD Childcare A number of the staff members who worked at the Arc of McLennan County Summer Day Camp for Children with Disabilities are available for childcare . For a list of names with contact information, go to the CONTACT US page. HOTAN seeks people who speak Spanish to help the parents of ASD persons whose primary language is Spanish. Contact HOTAN through our Contact Us page. |
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| Heart of Texas Autism Network -- Classes and Activities: SUPPER CLUBS Groups of children/youth with autism meet monthly to socialize and have fun! Groups for different ages, supervised by experienced special education teacher and facilitated by skilled volunteers. Contact Lisa Plemons for more information at lisabplemons@aol.com. Let's Get Growing ... Master Gardener Lynn DeMuynck is leading children/youth in adventures with plants! In addition to learning about Nature and the growing process, students also do "hands-on" projects and activities. The Heart of Texas Autism Network also participates with Waco's "We Care" Community Garden, taking care of two of the Garden's planting spaces, and contributing the harvest to Caritas. For more information email anitakarney@hotautismnetwork.org or leave a message on the "Contact Us" page of this website.. ART CLASSES! Betty Vela, owner of B's Art School (254-644-1323, 504 Hewitt Drive, in Hewitt), is partnering with the Heart of Texas Autism Network and organizing an art class for children with autism, every Thursday from 4:00 - 5:30 pm. (or 5:00, depending on student). Cost is only $10 per class, which includes all art materials! For more information contact Jacquelyn Baumann at makeadiff@gmail.com or leave a message on the "Contact Us" page of this website. Special Needs Scouting meeting Thursday, February 16th, 7 pm This opportunity is open to ALL special needs kids/youth! Meet at the Hewitt VFW Post 6008, 725 Sun Valley Blvd (next to the Dairy Queen). Special Needs Boy Scouting for kids/youth with autism and other disabilities -- the Hewitt VFW will sponsor the troop, and other local troops are available to mentor the Scouts. For more information, email anitakarney@hotautismnetwork.org or leave a message on "Contact Us" page of this website. ============================================================================================== |
| Special-Needs Swimming Instruction at YMCA YMCA of Central Texas offers swimming instruction to those with special needs. Instruction is individualised to meet the needs and abilities of each student. Classes are on a 4-session cycle, on a mutually agreed upon schedule, and meet at either the Doris Miller or Waco Family YMCA locations. Cost (total cost for each cycle of four classes): $25 (non-YMCA members), or $10 (YMCA members) Contact Chris Bernard, Director of Aquatics, at 254-405-3764, or chris.bernard@ymcactx.org for more information and to schedule classes. ============================================================================================ |
| Special Needs Resources in the Heart of Central Texas Does your area have anyone offering equine (horse) therapy? Swimming for special needs? Music classes? Is it easy, or difficult, to find a medical specialist for your special-needs family member where you live? Baylor is working on compiling a more comprehensive list of resources and services for families and individuals with special needs in the Heart of Central Texas area. This online survey (https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/SpecialNeedsResources) will help identify resource needs throughout the Heart of Central Texas area, and highlight opportunities for growth. For other news about research, studies and surveys, go to the Conferences and Studies page on this website. ======================================================================================= |
| 2nd Annual Mardi Gras Celebration of Art Click here to see KWTX interview This regional art competition, show and sale is open to art students of all ages and abilities; entries will be judged and prizes awarded on Mardi Gras Celebration of Art weekend, Friday February 17 and Saturday Februrary 18, 2012. Registration for the general competition, open to ALL art students of all ages and abilities, registration deadline is FEBRUARY 1st. Click here for more information; to volunteer, donate or for more information contact Betsy at meklesse@aol.com or Jacquelyn at makeadiff2010@gmail.com. The fantastic "Super Friday" Mardi Gras celebration party and the next day's Family Celebration will take place at the Palladium in Waco (729 Austin Avenue, across from the Hippodrome Theatre). Get your tickets now! GUEST ARTISTS: Grant Manier and Alexandria Sias! Click here to learn more about these two amazing artists! Funds raised will benefit the Heart of Texas Autism Network, and support arts programs that benefit people affected by autism spectrum disorders. ============================================================================================ |
| GIVE AUTISM A CHANCE! Recognise and celebrate the talents and skills of people with ASD ... give us a chance to create a better community and a better world for all! ... "It's not what we can't do ... it's what we CAN do!" ============================================================== |
Heart of Texas Kart
Club's "Kids Racing
For Kids" collected
donations for the
Heart of Texas
Autism Network.
THANK YOU, from our
hearts to yours!
For photo click here.
Club's "Kids Racing
For Kids" collected
donations for the
Heart of Texas
Autism Network.
THANK YOU, from our
hearts to yours!
For photo click here.
| First Annual Texas Angels Special Needs Pageant DEADLINE for entries: February 15th! Saturday, February 25, 2012; Lee Lockwood Scottish Rite Museum, 2801 W. Waco Drive, Waco, TX This pageant is open to boys and girls with special needs between birth and 21 years of age. Watch KWTX interview with organizers Tessanie Marek and Jamie Grisham! Click here for link. There is no entry fee for competitors. For Sponsorship letter click here; for Pageant Entry form click here; and to download a flyer, click here. Entry forms may be faxed to (254) 299-1384 or scanned and emailed to texasangelspageant@yahoo.com. ============================================================================================ |
The Give Autism a Chance campaign was launched to spread
the message that people with autism have incredible
potential, talent and skills. They can have meaningful
employment and contribute to society -- when given a
chance.
Give Autism A Chance began in Britain; 16-year-old Bella
Tommey, whose brother Billy is diagnosed with autism, set
up Billy's Cafe, a temporary cafe staffed almost entirely by
individuals with autism. It opened to rave reviews throughout
England and Europe. Go to http://tinyurl.com/6lfhud9 and
watch a report on the very successful launch of Billy's Cafe!
Give Autism A Chance is coming to Austin on April 22, and
will be setting up at the Spider House Patio Bar and Cafe to
showcase the talents and abilities of people on the autism
spectrum.
Grant Manier, one of the guest artists at Mardi Gras
Celebration, will also be at the Cafe on April 22. He designed
the flyer on the left.
Give Autism A Chance wants people with autism to send in
examples of artwork, jewelry, crafts --- whatever shows off
that individual's talent, whether created with or without
support.They are also looking for people with autism to work
at the Cafe. Click here for more information.
the message that people with autism have incredible
potential, talent and skills. They can have meaningful
employment and contribute to society -- when given a
chance.
Give Autism A Chance began in Britain; 16-year-old Bella
Tommey, whose brother Billy is diagnosed with autism, set
up Billy's Cafe, a temporary cafe staffed almost entirely by
individuals with autism. It opened to rave reviews throughout
England and Europe. Go to http://tinyurl.com/6lfhud9 and
watch a report on the very successful launch of Billy's Cafe!
Give Autism A Chance is coming to Austin on April 22, and
will be setting up at the Spider House Patio Bar and Cafe to
showcase the talents and abilities of people on the autism
spectrum.
Grant Manier, one of the guest artists at Mardi Gras
Celebration, will also be at the Cafe on April 22. He designed
the flyer on the left.
Give Autism A Chance wants people with autism to send in
examples of artwork, jewelry, crafts --- whatever shows off
that individual's talent, whether created with or without
support.They are also looking for people with autism to work
at the Cafe. Click here for more information.
| APPLIED BEHAVIOR ANALYSIS THERAPY OFFERED Baylor University graduate students in the ABA specialization program will provide ABA therapy to selected participants under the supervision of Board Certified Behavior Analyst, Dr. Tonya Davis. Individual, one-hour therapy sessions will be provided twice per week to each client at the BARC on Baylor University campus. This program is NOT intended to replace an in-home ABA program, but instead to supplement such programs and other therapy programs that the client may be receiving. Therapy goals will be selected by parent/caregiver, and progress monitoring results will be provided twice throughout the semester. Applicants must have a diagnosis of a developmental disability, including, but not limited to autism, PDD-NOS, intellectual disability (i.e., mental retardation), Down Syndrome, or Rett Syndrome. The program has limited openings. Applications will be reviewed, and accepted applicants will be placed with an available therapist or on the waitlist on a first come, first serve basis. Clients will be notified of acceptance and/or placement after application review. Cost: $50 registration & $7 per session; Fees subject to change For more information, contact Dr. Tonya Davis: Tonya_Davis@baylor.edu, 254-710-6166 ========================================================================================== |
| OFFICE OF CIVIL RIGHTS Issues Guidance Letter on Legal Rights for Students With Disabilties The ADA (Americans With Disabilities Act) and the Rehabilitation Act (which contains Section 504) were amended by Congress in 2009 to broaden the definition of disability. The Office of Civil Rights has published a Guidance Letter (along with a FAQ document) to remind school districts on their legal obligations to students with disabilities as mandated by Section 504 and the ADA. It's also very helpful for parents to read and become enlightened and empowered as to the rights of their child(ren). To review the Dear Colleague letter, visit http://www2.ed.gov/about/offices/list/ocr/letters/colleague-201109.html. The FAQs are posted at http://www2.ed.gov/about/offices/list/ocr/docs/dcl-504faq-201109.html. Another good resource to learn more about ADA and Autism-specific information and resources: Know the ADA: Guide to Autism . ======================================================================================= |
NEXT Heart of Texas Autism Network Meeting:
Monday, February 13th, 2012 ... 6:30 - 8:00 pm
SPEAKER: SHARRON STEPHENSON
Transition Specialist, Region 12 Education Service Center
Meeting Location: Room 919, 811 Washington Ave., Waco, Texas
Sharron has been in the field of special education for 19 years, from elementary through the high school level.
Sharron was also involved in researching the use of art therapy as a method of improving self-concept in
elementary age children with disabilities and was the recipient of the "Apple" award which provided funding for this
project.
Sharron was co-creator of the "Big Blue D.R.E.A.M.S." (Developing Real Employment and Management Skills)
program while working for Temple Independent School District. She is currently working to develop this program
into a thriving business for individuals with disabilities.
Come with your questions and bring your notebooks! You'll walk away with a wealth of information and resources!
For printable direction to the meeting location click here.
Limited childcare is available, however you must RSVP! If you have not previously registered your children, please
download and fill out this form. Please send the registration form and your reservation to Natalie Passanante at
natalie_passanante@baylor.edu.
=============================================================================================
Monday, February 13th, 2012 ... 6:30 - 8:00 pm
SPEAKER: SHARRON STEPHENSON
Transition Specialist, Region 12 Education Service Center
Meeting Location: Room 919, 811 Washington Ave., Waco, Texas
Sharron has been in the field of special education for 19 years, from elementary through the high school level.
Sharron was also involved in researching the use of art therapy as a method of improving self-concept in
elementary age children with disabilities and was the recipient of the "Apple" award which provided funding for this
project.
Sharron was co-creator of the "Big Blue D.R.E.A.M.S." (Developing Real Employment and Management Skills)
program while working for Temple Independent School District. She is currently working to develop this program
into a thriving business for individuals with disabilities.
Come with your questions and bring your notebooks! You'll walk away with a wealth of information and resources!
For printable direction to the meeting location click here.
Limited childcare is available, however you must RSVP! If you have not previously registered your children, please
download and fill out this form. Please send the registration form and your reservation to Natalie Passanante at
natalie_passanante@baylor.edu.
=============================================================================================
Parents Guide to Evidence-based Practice and Autism
The National Autism Center has published a very extensive guide designed to support parents as they make
decisions about their child’s treatment.
It discusses the complexity of diagnostic evaluations for children on the autism spectrum, identifies and describes
effective treatments, and outlines the importance of professional judgment and using data to guide treatment
decisions. Other topics include the role of family preferences and values in the decision-making process, and how
best to determine if a professional or organization has the capacity to provide evidence-based practice for a child
with autism.
Click here for more information and download/print.
=============================================================================================
The National Autism Center has published a very extensive guide designed to support parents as they make
decisions about their child’s treatment.
It discusses the complexity of diagnostic evaluations for children on the autism spectrum, identifies and describes
effective treatments, and outlines the importance of professional judgment and using data to guide treatment
decisions. Other topics include the role of family preferences and values in the decision-making process, and how
best to determine if a professional or organization has the capacity to provide evidence-based practice for a child
with autism.
Click here for more information and download/print.
=============================================================================================
Certificate in Autism Spectrum Disorder: University of Texas, Arlington (Online)
The University of Texas at Arlington has developed the Autism Spectrum Disorder Awareness Certificate online
program, to provide therapists and caregivers the introduction, background, aptitude and skills needed to work
effectively with this growing special needs population. This Certificate requires the completion of 4 required courses
and a Portfolio Project. Click here for more information and to enroll.
=================================================================================================
The University of Texas at Arlington has developed the Autism Spectrum Disorder Awareness Certificate online
program, to provide therapists and caregivers the introduction, background, aptitude and skills needed to work
effectively with this growing special needs population. This Certificate requires the completion of 4 required courses
and a Portfolio Project. Click here for more information and to enroll.
=================================================================================================
ATTENTION PARENTS!!
Currently there is an upper-level undergraduate course at Baylor University through the Dept of Psychology &
Neuroscience, aimed towards teaching students about children with autism.
There are 8 students who expressed interest in working one-on-one with a child. Although these students are not
formerly trained or licensed, they might be helpful in doing "home visits" and working with you and your child ... If
you would be interested please email both Danielle Young and Sarah Skipper.
Danielle Young: danielle_young@baylor.edu or Sarah Skipper: sarah_skipper@baylor.edu
==================================================================================================
Currently there is an upper-level undergraduate course at Baylor University through the Dept of Psychology &
Neuroscience, aimed towards teaching students about children with autism.
There are 8 students who expressed interest in working one-on-one with a child. Although these students are not
formerly trained or licensed, they might be helpful in doing "home visits" and working with you and your child ... If
you would be interested please email both Danielle Young and Sarah Skipper.
Danielle Young: danielle_young@baylor.edu or Sarah Skipper: sarah_skipper@baylor.edu
==================================================================================================
| Click here to see some of the fantastic Silent Auction items that are being donated!! |
Heart of Texas Autism Network P.O. Box 2484 Waco, TX 76703 |
MARCH 1: MEDICAID CHANGES
CHILDREN'S DENTAL MANAGED CARE
Beginning March 1, 2012, most children and young adults age 20 and younger enrolled in Medicaid also will start
getting dental services through a dental plan. More information regarding Dental Managed Care changes is
available at: www.hhsc.state.tx.us/medicaid/Children-Medicaid-Dental-Services.shtml
PHARMACY BENEFITS THROUGH MANAGED CARE
In addition, the Texas Health and Human Services will now include pharmacy benefits through STAR,
STAR+PLUS and CHIP health plans. The health plans will utilize the same preferred drug list as Medicaid. More
information is available at: www.hhsc.state.tx.us/medicaid/Chip-Pharmacy-Benefits.shtml
The Children’s Policy Council (http://www.hhsc.state.tx.us/si/cpc/index.shtml) would like to provide help with the
success of the roll-out by providing input to the Texas Health and Human Service Commission to consider and
address issues unique to children with special needs.
Parents of special needs children are asked to please send comments and concerns regarding transitioning to
dental managed care plan, or receiving benefits through pharmacy benefits program lrummel@austin.rr.com by
5 pm on Feb 10, 2012.
=======================================================================================
CHILDREN'S DENTAL MANAGED CARE
Beginning March 1, 2012, most children and young adults age 20 and younger enrolled in Medicaid also will start
getting dental services through a dental plan. More information regarding Dental Managed Care changes is
available at: www.hhsc.state.tx.us/medicaid/Children-Medicaid-Dental-Services.shtml
PHARMACY BENEFITS THROUGH MANAGED CARE
In addition, the Texas Health and Human Services will now include pharmacy benefits through STAR,
STAR+PLUS and CHIP health plans. The health plans will utilize the same preferred drug list as Medicaid. More
information is available at: www.hhsc.state.tx.us/medicaid/Chip-Pharmacy-Benefits.shtml
The Children’s Policy Council (http://www.hhsc.state.tx.us/si/cpc/index.shtml) would like to provide help with the
success of the roll-out by providing input to the Texas Health and Human Service Commission to consider and
address issues unique to children with special needs.
Parents of special needs children are asked to please send comments and concerns regarding transitioning to
dental managed care plan, or receiving benefits through pharmacy benefits program lrummel@austin.rr.com by
5 pm on Feb 10, 2012.
=======================================================================================