WORKSHOPS

For the Workshop SCHEDULE, click here

NOTICE: As of January 1, 2010, workshop fees for preofessionals are $25.00; parents of children with disabilities are admitted free unless otherwise noted. Professional group discounts are available. Call (714) 533-8275 for more information.

• 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.
• AT and the IEP 
  This workshop will help parents to understand the process of obtaining an appropriate AT assessment and how to work with the rest of the IEP team to provide effective services for their child. (Please note: this is not an assistive technology workshop.)
• 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.
• 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.
• Getting and Keeping Your First Job 
  Many families may wonder if their son or daughter can or will be employed. The goal of this session is to help families, caregivers and prfoessionals understand the realities of today's work world so they can help youth with disabilities earn competitive employment. Participants will learn the importance of disability self-awareness, how families can help youth with career planning, and strategies to navigate resumes, job interviews and job applications.
• 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.
• 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. 
• Journey Through Adolescence
  This presentation will provide parents with basic information about the changes that puberty and adolescence bring to every child, including their son or daughter. The information is intended to help participants feel more comfortable and confident as they help their children safely navigate this important transition from childhood to adulthood. The ultimate aim is to promote the independence, personal safety, healthy lifestyles, healthy relationships and social inclusion of youth with disabilities. This workshop is appropriate for parents of primary and middle school students.    
• 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.
• Section 504 and Transition: The Bridge from Highschool to Postsecondary Life
  In this workshop, we will assist you to understand the ITP process as it pertains to postsecondary education and other related services. We will also provide an overview of programs and resources available to your child entering postsecondary education or employment.
• 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. 
• 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.

Assistive Technology Workshops

• APPsolutely Amazing: iDevices and Apps for Kids with Special Needs 
  In this workshop, we will introduce the iPad and iPod Touch. Learn about the built-in accessibility features on these devices as well as some interesting hardware you can buy to go with them. Experience the wonderful applications that can be used on these devices for children with special needs. Some of the applications discussed and demonstrated will include early learning, social skills, life skills, interactive books, communication applications and much more! (Prior technology knowledge is recommended.)
• AT 101
  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. 
• AT for Autism and Other Disabilities
  This workshop introduces technology specifically related to disorders on the autism spectrum and for those with developmental disabilities, including software with the following focus areas: video modeling, social skills, life skills, vocabulary building, language development, communication, interpreting emotions and more. We will offer many solutions from low tech interventions to high tech AAC devices.
• AT for Early Learning
  Topics will include software that facilitates early learning, toy/book adaptations, storybook software, switch access software and much more. Come and see how your little ones can benefit from assistive technology.   
• 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.