[FEAT BC Admin]

This area is for discussions in general topics.

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[Mike & Jean]

Derrick Leach – Please contact me at your earliest convenience.

Thanks,
Jean

[David Chan]

Hello to all,

Well, things have calmed down somewhat at the Chan household, although we still have a gaping hole about 3 feet in diameter in our living room ceiling, which we're jokingly calling a "skylight". We're hoping that house insurance will cover it, but we won't know for sure until next week.

Anyway, the point of this post is to send out a huge and heartfelt thanks to John and Bev, who, despite their own busy lives and struggles with their kids, somehow found the time to support us. You guys just earned yourself a spot in heaven, although we don't want you to go there anytime soon !!

As always,

the grateful Chan Clan.

[David Chan]

Hi everyone,

This has absolutely nothing to do with ABA or Autism, and all about the the adventures of the Chan clan.

About 2 years ago, there we discovered a leak on our roof, some raccoons had tore a hole in the shingles. it cause some water damage, but hey money is tight, so we got a patch and the ceiling just looked ugly, oh well, there are bigger fish to fry, therapy to pay for…….

In May of this year, we finally bit the bullet, and ordered a new roof. the installation date was suppose to be 2nd week in September, but because the of the bad weather, September came and went, and still no roof, got a call from the Sears, the installer, saying it will be sometime in November. Well It's now december, and still no roof. In the mean time the rains came last week, and so did our friends the raccoons.

Fast forward to tonite. We noticed that there was a crack in the ceiling, but hey, what else is new…. suck it up call the roofers tomorrow and raise cane. Have some dinner an move on. Just as we were sitting down for some dinner, two, yes TWO raccoons came crashing through the ceiling leaving a 2 foot hole in the ceiling, with rain water dripping in.

Good times at the Chan house.

Well, what it boils down to, The Chan Clan is in need. Yup, we are tapped out, and the ceiling needs repairing. If any of you FEAT folks out there can come to our aide we'd sure appreciate it.

About the only good thing that happened was I told my neighbor across the road, who happens to be a wine rep the story, I got some free sample from a show she just came back from. It was red, it was french, it was good, and it was FREE

That's about all for now folks.

Signing off as always.

Mr. P's intrepid and tapped out mom and dad

Dave and Julia

[Stella Li]

Hi everyone,

After much hard work, our new library resources materials are ready to go :-)

Take a look at our new library book/DVD list. Come visit us or let us know if you like to be put on our waitlist to borrow these valuable materials.

Cheers!

Stella

Autism Society of British Columbia
New Library Resources Materials (December 2007)

DVDs

Conversation Cues – For Children with Autism, AS, PDD-NOS, NLD, Social Anxiety, LD (middle school to high school) – by Model Me Kids, http://www.modelmekids.com 2007
This DVD includes 12 topics: When to Start Conversation, Cue: interested, Cue: Not Interested, How to Start Conversation, Cue: Bored, Take Turns, maintain Conversation, Talk On Topic, Cue: Disbelief, Cue: Confused, My Cues, End Conversation.

Social Behavior Mapping – by Michelle Garcia Winner, The Gray Center for Social Learning and Understanding 2007
Social Behavior Mapping, a valuable treatment strategy, helps students to understand how our behaviors impact how people feel, which then impacts how they treat us, which impacts how we feel about ourselves.

Growing Up Social: Exploring How Social Communication Develops…and strategies to help! (Disc 1& 2) – by Michelle Garcia Winner, The Gray Center for Social Learning and Understanding 2007
This DVD looks at how social thinking supports the development of social skills from the first year of life, influencing language development and academic success, as well as skills for adult living.

A Day at School – by Special Kids http://www.speical-kids.com
What's a typical day at school like? There's a lot to do and it's a lot of fun! Join John and learn the alphabet, numbers, spelling, reading and writing. You'll sing a song, watch kids color pictures and play at recess. Plus you'll learn how to behave…from getting on the bus, to sitting quietly, to raising your hand or waiting your turn…

Books, Manuals, Workbooks

Graduated Applied Behavior Analysis – by Bobby Newman, Dove and Orca 2002
Applied Behavior Analysis has proven to be the most effective means of teaching children diagnosed with autistic-spectrum disorders. ABA is not, however, "one size fits all." Different teaching techniques within ABA must be chosen, based upon student need. In Graduated Applied Behavior Analysis, Dr. Bobby Newman and colleagues describe an approach that alters teaching methodologies based on the functioning level of the student. While there are many schools of thought within ABA, they are all part of the same basic science. Aspects of that science are outlined. Portions of an introductory manual and a study describing the effectiveness of an ABA preschool are included.

Social Behavior Mapping – Connecting Behavior, Emotions and Consequences Across the Day – by Michelle Garcia Winner, Think Social Publishing Inc. 2007
In this book, Michelle introduces a simple, predictable and systematic method of teaching students to better understand how their behavior impacts how other people think about them – a great example of how one can use black and white systems to objectively teach sensitive social realities.

Sticker Strategies – Practical Strategies to Encourage Social Thinking and Organization – by Michelle Garcia Winner, Think Social Publishing Inc. 2007
The sticker strategies are organized by topics: Asking for Help; Emotions and Problem Solving; Organization, Writing and Homework; Group Work; Social Thinking; Family Time – Home Strategies. These strategies can easily be applied to any child who needs that strong visual reminder which is a much more powerful teacher than an adult’s “nag”.

How to Find Your Groove – (Conversation Skills and Other Tips for Surviving the Social World) – by Laura K. Cornish, Groovy Kids 2005
Improve your students´ understanding of basic social skills with this book of characters depicting the right and wrong way to respond in common social situations. This reproducible book targets conversation skills, emotional awareness and control, and assertiveness training with concrete visual examples and ideas for role-playing. Use "Laura's Conversational Profiles" to determine where to begin with even your most challenging students.

The Social Skills Picture Book – Teaching Play, Emotion, and Communication to Children with Autism – by Jed Baker, Future Horizons Inc. 2001
This is a dynamic teaching tool that engages the attention and motivation of students who need extra help learning appropriate social skills by demonstrating nearly 30 social skills such as conversation, play, emotion management and empathy.

Building Social Relationships – A Systematic Approach to Teaching Social Interaction Skills to Children and Adolescents With Autism Spectrum Disorders and Other Social Difficulties – by Scott Bellini, Autism Aspergers Publishing Company (AAPC) 2006
This book addresses the need for social programming for children and adolescents with ASD by providing a comprehensive five-step model.

Louder Than Words – A Mother’s Journey in Healing Autism – by Jenny McCarthy, DUTTON Penguin Group (USA) Inc. 2007
Jenny McCarthy wrote a book about her experience with an autistic son and what they did to reverse it.

The Kid-Friendly ADHD & Autism Cookbook – The Ultimate Guide to The Gluten-Free, Casein-Free Diet – by Pamela J. Compart and Dana Laake, Fair Winds Press 2006
Practical kid-friendly recipes and guide to the gluten-free milk-free diet for ADHD and Autism. What it is. Why it works. How to do it. This book provides successful suggestions for feeding the picky eater. The specialty ingredients are explained and extensive sources provided. There are testimonials from parents and children.

Preparing for Life – The Complete Guide for Transitioning to Adulthood for those with Autism and Asperger’s Syndrome – by Jed Baker, Future Horizons Inc. 2005
A comprehensive resource for students on the autism spectrum preparing for life after high school, the author offers "life skills training" on subjects such as non-verbal cues, body language, dealing with anger/frustration/anxiety, building and maintaining friendships/roommates/intimate relationships. He focuses on conversational and employment skills, ways to balance work/school with family demands, and problematic areas such as finances, emergencies and transportation matters.

A Strange World – Autism, Asperger’s Syndrome and PDD-NOS – A Guide for Parents, Partners, Professional Carers, and People and ASDs – by Martine F. Delfos, Jessica Kingsley Publishers 2005
This book is a comprehensive guide to autistic spectrum disorders presented from a scientific perspective. It offers practical advice on how to approach these problems from the various perspectives of autistic children, adolescents and adults, as well as parents and carers of autistic people.

Asperger’s and Girls – Featuring Tony Attwood and Temple Grandin, plus 7 more experts, Future Horizons Inc. 2006
This book provides up-to-date information about girls with Asperger's Syndrome and recognizes the unique problems of girls on the spectrum. Covering topics include diagnoses, education, puberty, relationships, and careers.

Brotherly Feelings – Me, My Emotions, and My Brother with Asperger’s Syndrome – By Sam Frender and Robin Schiffmiller, Jessica Kingsley Publishers 2007
This book explores the emotions that siblings of children with Asperger's Syndrome commonly experience. It helps siblings to understand that their emotional responses – whatever they are – are natural and OK. It is intended for parents and professionals.

No Fishing Allowed – “Reel” in Bullying (Teacher Manual) – by Carol Gray and Judy Williams, Future Horizons Inc. 2006
No Fishing Allowed is a peer violence prevention program. The key to creating a peaceful learning community is the tone set by the classroom teacher. The purpose of this manual is to provide teachers with information, ideas and activities to address bullying attempts and other unfriendly social interactions in a classroom setting. The goal of the program is to allow all children to learn in a safe and secure school setting.

No Fishing Allowed – “Reel” in Bullying (Student Workbook) – by Carol Gray and Judy Williams, Future Horizons Inc. 2006

Good Friends Are Hard to Find – Help Your Child Find, Make and Keep Friends and Also Deal With: teasing, bullying, meanness & stormy relationships – by Fred Frankel, Perspective Publishing Inc. 1996
This book is for parent whose five to twelve-year-old has no one to play with, is outraged when other kids tease/pick on him/her… It provides step-by-step information for parents to help their youngsters make friends and solve problems with other kids. It is a guide that offers concrete help for teasing, bullying and meanness, both for the child who is picked on and for the tormentor. Based on the UCLA Children's Social Skills Program, this book teaches clinically tested techniques that really work. This is a valuable, practical, and applicable reference book for any parenting collection.

Replays – Using Play to Enhance Emotional and Behavioral Development for Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders – by Karen Levine and Naomi Chedd, Jessica Kingsley Publishers 2007
Replays addresses the challenging behaviors of children with autism spectrum disorders through interactive symbolic play. It shows parents and professionals how to help children access their emotions. The chapters show readers how to implement Replays, and describe ways of adapting this intervention to address specific issues in different settings and circumstances.

Ten Things Every Child Wth Autism Wishes You Knew – by Ellen Notbohm, Future Horizons Inc. 2005
Framed with both humor and compassion, the book defines the top ten characteristics that illuminate the minds and hearts of children with autism.

Now I Get It! – Social Stories that build confidence & demonstrate appropriate behavior – plus comprehension questions after each story – by Natural Learning Concepts
Nine books, each book has two stories
1. Answering Questions; Saying “Hi’ and “Bye”
2. Saying “Excuse Me”; Please and Thank You
3. Getting ready for school; Getting ready for bed
4. I don’t understand; Getting help, Giving help
5. Talking about my day; When things change
6. Getting Angry; Sharing
7. Fire Drills; Assembly
8. The Playground; The Beach
9. The Restaurant; The Movies

How to Start a Conversation and Make Friends – by Don Gabor, FIRESIDE Simon & Schuster Inc. 2001
By following the simple and dynamic guidelines in this book, you'll learn how to start and to keep a conversation going by asking the right questions, using body language effectively, and avoiding conversation pitfalls. This book was packed with charts, hundreds of opening lines, real-life examples, FAQs, helpful hints, and solid professional advice…

[Theresa Jouan]

Hi Deb-

We are in the process of finalizing a few details and hope to have a new and improved basic theory workshop date set in the new year.

Stay tuned for details! )

Theresa

[Nicole Kaler]

Debra Antifaev

Re your inquiry about a Line Training Class

Perhaps you missed the earlier post. Harmony House is facilitating another very good line training class this Saturday Dec 8th. These beginner line training classes are excellent resources for parents new to the world of ABA as well as individuals who would like an introduction to the field.

For more information please visit http://www.harmonyhousebc.ca/training

Although the classes fill up quickly and the registration deadline has passed,a waiting list is always maintained and spaces may become available at the last minute.

Also Harmony House will be running line and lead classes in the new year so if anyone is interested you can just refer to http://www.harmonyhousebc.ca to stay updated on scheduling.

Hope this helps.

[Debra Antifaev]

oooohh, and while I'm chatting…..
is anyone doing a new therapist (beginner) workshop in the next wee while?
Sharon??
Theresa??
Karen??
I need a New Therapist Beginner Workshop…one of your really good ones….some Saturday soon….any announcements??

[Kelly Moonie]

Morning !

I am interviewing Ik and kiran today from E.A.P. Just wondering if anyone has any feesd back on these two? Thanks.

moonie@telus.net

[Ursula Lee]

New report by American Academy of pediatrics on diagnosis and managementof autism.
See
http://www.aap.org

[David Chan]

Hi guys,

I am quite aware of the story that Jemma posted about the kid in Hong Kong. I had just started working with my kid in his grade 3 year,(yes working hands on, five days a week, 5 1/2 hours a day in his elementary school being his SEA) after spending a year doing ABA at home, six and half days a week, after pulling him from an untenable placement in public school.

I remember thinking to myself, OMG, that could be my kid, and that cold chill up my spine and in my stomach did two thing.

The feeling strengthened my resolve to continue with ABA therapy with my son, no not "INTERVENTION". "T H E R A P Y". thats right, what I did with him was not intervene, but treat.

Secondly I recognized what I was undertaking was a mission, one that I was destined (for lack of a better term) to continue.

I had the privilege of undertaking that journey with Mr. P for
two and a half school years. Not withstanding my professional losses, it was the best thing that I have ever done. It will be the most meaningful thing that I would have done during my time in this veil of tears, before I shed my mortal coils

To this day, we work tirelessly, monitoring Mr.P's behaviours, always setting the bar higher and higher, why? not because I need him to, but for the express reason that the world will not accommodate him, and he will have to make his way in it. The "B" in ABA stands for "BEHAVIOUR". This element alone will determine how he will negotiate his world.

In the taser thing, and the border thing, everyone was really hasty, and dire consequences resulted.

We do ABA to pre-empt the behaviours, so that when our guys and gals will have a modicum of better chance.

For what ever reason, Mr. D was BEHAVING in an erratic manner, Please don't think for a moment that I am blaming the victim. The point I am trying to make is that the people at YVR responded to what they could observe. It doesn't for a moment excuse what airport people,and the RCMP did, but if you think about Mr. D, his dilemma was quite similar to our children's. Unable to communicate, and exhibiting behaviour that was considered outside the norm.

The conclusion to this ramble is this. Behaviour management is paramount. We try our best to mediate our children's behaviour, so don't for a moment think that the academic piece trumps the behavioural component of your kid's program.

I do ramble on……..I guess that 's a Jedi's prerogative

Obi-wan indeed, I'm going to get a swelled head.

P.S.
On a much lighter note, had a meet the teacher on Thursday at Mr. P's school.

To put it in Sally Field's words…."They like him, they really, really like him". We don't know why but after seven years of what I would consider good school placements, it still surprise us.

Always remember, Many a self made man stopped too damn soon. In other words, always keep trying, and it ain't over till it's over….in the case of our kids it's not where they get to, but the journey….. So far, the journey has been pretty darn cool.

May the force be with you all

Still raising our kid Ivar's way

Dave
Mr. P's Dad

[Author]

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