Holiday Hours

In observance of the year end holidays, the CeDIR library will close at 4:00 p.m. today for two weeks and will re-open at 8:00 a.m. on Monday, January 4th. We wish everyone a happy holiday season and a wonderful new year!

Getting from me to we

"Getting from Me to We helps parents understand the roots of these problems, which take hold at a very young age, and give their kids the foundational skills necessary to form connections and friendships. The book explains how parents can teach their children social observing skills at an early stage in their development and identify:
- Where their child is on the social skills ladder
- How to set goals to fill in those gaps
- How and when to support their child during play
- How to identify play behaviors that hinder or help
- How to model good social skills and cues" -publisher

Want to check it out? Email us at cedir@indiana.edu or use worldcat.org to find it in a library near you.

After the Diagnosis of an Autism Spectrum Disorder

The folks at the Indiana Resource Center for Autism in a collaborative effort with numerous organizations have put together a new brochure to help families who have children with a new diagnosis on the spectrum. This free booklet, “After the Diagnosis of an Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Resource for Families Whose Child is Newly Diagnosed,” includes information on what it means to have an autism spectrum disorder diagnosis, what services and supports are available, funding, and a state resource list.

To read more about it and to place an order, please visit:
http://www.iidc.indiana.edu/pages/after-the-diagnosis-booklet%22

Camp Yes, And

Last summer, the Indiana Institute’s Center on Education and Lifelong Learning and Indiana Resource Center for Autism collaborated to offer Camp Yes, And, an improvisational theater summer camp for teens on the autism spectrum and teachers.

Camp Yes, And was the first program of its kind in Indiana, providing both direct service to individuals with autism and a professional development experience for teachers. Recently, the Center received a grant award from the Collaborative Research and Creative Activity Funding program administered by the Office of the Vice Provost of Research at Indiana University Bloomington to conduct research around the impact of Camp Yes, And when it is offered again in the summer of 2016.

Visit their new website to join their mailing list and learn about next year's camp.

http://yesand.indiana.edu/home.php

Mobile App Monday - i Get Christmas

"i Get .. Christmas is an application providing a photo social skill story for individuals that need support in understanding the process of Christmas. Thirty pages with real picture images are used to illustrate the sequence of events. Each page can be individualized for the user by adding personal photos taking pictures with an Apple camera ready device, add text and audio. Typically developing young children participating in Christmas for the first time and individuals with developmental delays, such as PDD-NOS, autism and down syndrome will benefit from this interactive application." -iTunes

Want to learn more about this app? Please visit:
https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/id489606084

2016 OAR Scholarship Program

Each year the Organization for Autism Research (OAR) grants $3,000.00 scholarships to individuals on the autism spectrum enrolled, full-time, in an accredited post-secondary program. The program must be an undergraduate education or vocational-technical training program at any in any of the following institutions:

Four-year undergraduate college or university

Two-year undergraduate college

Trade, technical or vocational school

Cooperative life skills programs

As of December 1, 2015, OAR has awarded a total of $584,500 to 191 students from across the country.

All applications are due May 2, 2016 at 11:59PM Eastern Time. For more information check this link: http://researchautism.org/news/otherevents/scholarship.asp

Special time with Santa

On Friday, December 11th, from noon until 6:00 p.m., the Fountain Square Mall in Bloomington will be hosting a Special Time for families with people with special needs to visit with Santa Claus. Photographs will be discounted at $3.00 each. Santa will be located at the mantle scene in the main atrium of Fountain Square Mall, located at 101 W. Kirkwood Ave, Bloomington, IN 47404.

Library closing early

The CeDIR Library will be closing at 2:45 this afternoon. We will re-open at 8:00 a.m. tomorrow morning.

Thank you!

Mobile App Monday - Peekaboo Presents

Looking for a holiday app that can help teach cause and effect? Peekaboo Presents might be just right. Have a younger child touch a present to see what happens. An older child can try to guess what is inside the present from listening to the sound it makes before being unwrapped.

Want more information? Please visit:
https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/id575704316

CeDIR Library Holiday Hours

Season's greeting from CeDIR to you! This year, the library will be closed for two weeks for the year end holidays. If you have library materials to return, you may do so by mail or return them to any Indiana University library at any time. If you'd like to get items checked out, please contact us by Friday, December 18th. We will be closed from December 19th through January 3rd and will re-open at 8:00 a.m. on Monday, January 4th.

Email: cedir@indiana.edu
Phone: 812-855-9396
Toll-Free: 800-437-7924

Happy Holidays!

IRCA director named to state bicentennial working group

Cathy Pratt, director of the Indiana Resource Center for Autism, has been "appointed by Lt. Gov. Sue Ellspermann to participate in an Indiana Bicentennial Legacy Project to develop a long-term vision for the future of Indiana around youth and education."

Read more of the press release at:
http://news.indiana.edu/releases/iu/2015/12/pratt-bicentennial-project.shtml

Mobile App Monday - Sleeps to Christmas Lite

Looking for a fun app to help those who are just too excited to wait for Christmas? Sleeps to Christmas might be just what you need. This fun app has a variety of characters that hold signs that count down the nights, hours, minutes or seconds to Christmas. Snow falls around the character while Christmas music plays, and you can even shake your phone or iPod to make the jingle bells sound.

Want to learn more about it? Please visit:
https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/id293747050

House to Home

Autism Speaks is working on a project to empower adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder to move out of their family home and live as independently as possible, while remaining connected to the larger community. They are inviting people from around the world to submit innovative, breakthrough ideas in the following three home and residential support solutions:

• For individuals who require 24/7 support
• For individuals who require daily support
• For individuals who require weekly support

The best solution in each of these categories will receive a $50,000 USD prize. The total prize purse is $150,000 USD.

You may visit the Autism Speaks House to Home Prize challenge page to find out more and to register as an innovator. No entry fee is required. Last date for submission is March 1, 2016.

Go to: https://herox.com/HouseToHomePrize

Mobile App Monday - Pocket Charts

"Developed for your iPad, this easy game will teach and reinforce discrimination and memory skills. Game play is based on the popular pocket charts used in classrooms around the world. Happy Thanksgiving! Match Game requires 3-5 minutes for a young learner to complete, making this iPad app ideal for students with short attention spans or those requiring highly visual or tactile learning experiences." -iTunes

Want to learn more about it? Please visit:
https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/id403884186

Thanksgiving Hours

Next week, CeDIR library will be open on Monday and Tuesday. We will close at 4:00 p.m. on Tuesday, November 24th and will re-open at 8:00 a.m. on Monday, November 30th.

Happy Thanksgiving!

rain reign

In Rain Reign, "Rose Howard [a fifth grader with Asperger's] is obsessed with homonyms. She's thrilled that her own name is a homonym, and she purposely gave her dog Rain a name with two homonyms (Reign, Rein), which, according to Rose's rules of homonyms, is very special. Not everyone understands Rose's obsessions, her rules, and the other things that make her different – not her teachers, not other kids, and not her single father.

When a storm hits their rural town, rivers overflow, the roads are flooded, and Rain goes missing. Rose's father shouldn't have let Rain out. Now Rose has to find her dog, even if it means leaving her routines and safe places to search." -publisher

Want to check it out? Email us at cedir@indiana.edu or use worldcat.org to find it in a library near you.

Education and System of Care

The Indiana Resource Center for Autism has published a new article on the framework of system of care "that has proven to have long term, positive outcomes for youth, their families and for the communities where these families live."

"The concept of System of Care (SOC) was first articulated in 1986 as a framework and philosophy. This framework was designed to guide the mental health field to reform child-serving systems, services and supports to better meet the needs of children and youth who were impacted by serious mental health challenges in their communities."

To read the entire article, please visit:
http://www.iidc.indiana.edu/pages/system-of-care

Mobile App Monday - Fall Changes

Got someone who doesn't seem to like change? Try "Fall Changes" to help them learn about changes in Autumn. "Celebrate all the things that make fall fun in this colorful seasonal book.
Teach your little one about all that autumn brings: changes in weather, plants, animals, & traditions.
Presented in such a charming way, your child won’t even realize how much they’re learning!"

Want to learn more about it? Please visit:
https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/id553193991

Writing and Using Social Narratives in All Environments

Do you need to create a social story? Wondering how to even begin? Staff at the Indiana Resource Center for Autism have published an article to help you out. You will find answers to questions such as:

• How do you create a social narrative?
• What should you write?
• How can I be creative with my social narratives? and
• Where can I go to learn more?

To read the entire article, please visit:
http://www.iidc.indiana.edu/pages/writing-and-using-social-narratives

Expanding Expression Tool Workshop

Expanding Expression Tool Workshop

A Multi-Sensory Approach for Improved Written and Oral Expression

Presenter: Sara L. Smith, MS, CCC-SLP

November 17, 2015 in New Haven, IN

November 18, 2015 in Bloomington, IN
 
November 19, 2015 in New Albany, IN

November 20, 2015 in Carmel, IN

Sponsored by the Indiana Resource Center for Autism

In collaboration with East Allen County Schools, Monroe County Community School Corporation, New Albany-Floyd County Consolidated School Corporation and Carmel Clay Schools.

This workshop will demonstrate a multi-sensory approach for oral and written expression for preschool through 12th grade that will facilitate improvement on vocabulary skills, the common core learning objectives, comprehension of curriculum material, report writing and expressive language.

Learn more about it by visiting:
http://www.iidc.indiana.edu/pages/expanding-expression-tool-workshop

Overcoming anxiety in children and teens

Overcoming anxiety in children and teens "outlines both the science and art of anxiety therapy. The science of overcoming anxiety is using the well researched approach called gradual exposure therapy which involves helping individuals gradually face their fears. The art of therapy is figuring out how to actually convince someone to face their fears." -publisher

Want to learn more about it? Email us at cedir@indiana.edu to check out this title or use worldcat.org to find it in a library near you.

Mobile App Monday - A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving

"This holiday season, join Charlie Brown and the Peanuts gang around the table for a (very!) unique Thanksgiving dinner. From pilgrims to popcorn, A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving comes to life in this beautifully re-mastered 40th anniversary edition. Magically marrying a book-like feel with clever interactive elements, A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving will leave your senses hungry for a second helping!" -iTunes

Want to learn more about it? Please visit:
https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/id703585226

Verbal Behavior Milestones Assessment and Placement Program

"The VB-MAPP is a criterion-referenced assessment tool, curriculum guide, and skill tracking system that is designed for children with autism, and other individuals who demonstrate language delays. The VB-MAPP is based on B.F. Skinner’s (1957) analysis of verbal behavior, established developmental milestones, and research from the field of behavior analysis."

Want to check it out? Email us at cedir@indiana.edu or use worldcat.org to find it in a library near you.

Social stories website

Carol Gray, author of many books about writing social stories, has created a website that offers support for those who are touched by autism. Gray describes the site as "A social learning tool that supports the safe and meaningful exchange of information between parents, professionals, and people with autism of all ages."

Learn more about it at:
http://carolgraysocialstories.com/

Mobile App Monday - Leafapalooza: Catch the Falling Leaves

Looking for a fun fall app to keep kids entertained on these longer evenings? Simply catch the falling leaves! They'll start slow and fall faster and faster. Helps build hand-eye coordination and fine motor skills.

Want to learn more about it? Please visit:
https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/id910045969

Supporting behavior for school success: A step-by-step guide to key strategies

Supporting behavior for school success: A step-by-step guide to key strategies is "designed for busy teachers and other school-based professionals. This book presents step-by-step guidelines for implementing seven highly effective strategies to improve classroom management and instructional delivery. These key low-intensity strategies are grounded in the principles of positive behavior intervention and support (PBIS), and are easy to integrate into routine teaching practice." -publisher

Interested? Email us at cedir@indiana.edu to check out this title or use worldcat.org to find it in a library near you.

Behavior support

Behavior support is "packed with updated strategies on hot topics, redesigned forms, and the newest research on multi-tiered systems of support. This new edition will help you support positive changes in your students' behavior—so you can keep the focus on learning. It is ideal for both in-service teacher training and college and university courses." -publisher

Want to check it out? Email us at cedir@indiana.edu or use worldcat.org to find it in a library near you.

Learning disabilities and challenging behaviors

In this third edition of Learning disabilities and challenging behaviors: Using the building blocks model to guide intervention and classroom management, learn how students in Grades K–12 struggling with social and academic skills can develop the competence and confidence they need to succeed. "Reliable, up-to-date research makes this a perfect preservice textbook, and the classroom-ready strategies are a lifeline for in-service teachers as they work toward better outcomes for struggling students." -publisher

Want to check it out? Email us at cedir@indiana.edu or use worldcat.org to find it in a library near you.

Teaching communication skills to students with severe disabilities

Teaching communication skills to students with severe disabilities is now in its third edition. In it, you will find "up-to-date information and practical guidance on the entire process of supporting communication for students of all ages, from assessing their communication skills to involving peers and adults in intervention. An important textbook and professional reference, this comprehensive volume will help educators, paraprofessionals, SLPs, and other school staff skillfully support every student's right to communicate." -publisher

Want to check it out? Email us at cedir@indiana.edu or use worldcat.org to find it in a library near you.

Mobile App Monday - First Words Halloween

First Words apps are toddler-tested and approved, designed for the littlest of fingers. More than just a game, First Words is a sophisticated learning tool that engages your child, encourages exploration and helps them understand the relationships between letters and words." -iTunes

And just in time for the upcoming holiday, this fun learning app has a Halloween theme including not-so-spooky sound effects.

To learn more about it, please visit:
https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/id468154419

Disruptive behavior disorders: Evidence-based practice for assessment and intervention

Disruptive behavior disorders: Evidence-based practice for assessment and intervention "reviews a broad range of evidence-based practices and offers recommendations for selecting, implementing, and evaluating them within a multi-tiered framework. Coverage includes school- and home-based approaches, multi-component programs, prevention strategies, and social skills training." -publisher

Interested? Email us at cedir@indiana.edu to check out this title or use worldcat.org to find it in a library near you.

Sesame Street includes character with autism

According to a story on cnn.com, Sesame Street has added a character with autism to its resources for parents. The little girl named Julia is part of a new program designed to spread awareness about children with autism. The digital storybook shows Elmo at play with Julia and explaining some of her differences to other children.

The Sesame Street and Autism: See All in Amazing Children program is available as an app and on desktop. It includes daily routine cards and resources to help family, friends and others who encounter children with autism.

Creativity and the autistic student: Supporting strengths to develop skills and deepen knowledge

Wondering how to support K-12 students on the spectrum in public, private, inclusive as well as specialized schools? Creativity and the autistic student can help. The author explores using creativity as a way to look at meaningful learning experiences of young people on the spectrum. "She then identifies key qualities of education that are commonly cited by autistic people to be significant to the development of fulfilling lives, healthy identities, promising careers and vocations, and creativity in general." -publisher

Want to check it out? Email us at cedir@indiana.edu or use worldcat.org to find it in a library near you.

Increasing Independence in Adults with Autism Spectrum Disorders

Looking for ways to increase the independence of adults on the autism spectrum? The Indiana Resource Center for Autism has posted an article that can help. It begins:
"As adults, we all need to be able to carry out tasks independently whether this is in the area of work, college, daily living skills or leisure activities. This is no different for individuals with autism spectrum disorders (ASD). ‘To Do’ Lists (also known as Work Systems) have been shown to increase on task behavior, number of tasks completed and reduce instructor prompts required for both children and adults with ASD (Hume &Odom, 2007; Hume et al., 2009)."

To read the entire article, please visit:
http://www.iidc.indiana.edu/pages/increasing-independence-in-adults

Mobile App Monday - The Sight Word Adventure

The Sight Word Adventure is a fun-filled game where children and those with developmental delays can learn to recognize, read, and write up to 320 sight words. Based on the game of Hide-and-Seek, the app explores the cognitive skills necessary to remember sight words such as: visual attention, the morphology of the forest setting (i.e. the letters in a word), active listening, and of course visual memorization.

Want to learn more about it? Please visit:
https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/id931529829

Enhancing communication for individuals with autism: A guide to the visual immersion system

Enhancing communication for individuals with autism is a "practical, research-based intervention framework that taps into the strong visual processing skills many children on the spectrum have. You'll learn how to use readily available resources—from photos and symbols to apps and software—to create a customized system of visual supports that boost seven key communicative functions." -publisher

Want to check it out? Email us at cedir@indiana.edu or use worldcat.org to find it in a library near you.

Make your own picture stories for kids with ASD

Make your own picture stories for kids with ASD (autism spectrum disorder): A DIY guide for parents and carers "will give parents and carers the tools and confidence they need to create individualised picture stories to help their child with ASD cope with social situations, difficult emotions, transitions and other challenging situations." -publisher

Want to check it out? Email us at cedir@indiana.edu or use worldcat.org to find it in a library near you.

Upcoming Workshops from IRCA

Primarily for Paraprofessionals - Teaching Students on the Autism Spectrum and Addressing Challenging Behaviors

Presenter:
Dr. Cathy Pratt, BCBA-D, Director, Indiana Resource Center for Autism
Cost: $65
Dates: 10/16/15 - Plymouth; 10/20/15 - Newburgh; 10/30/15 - North Vernon
Overview: The goal is to provide paraprofessionals and interested others with information about understanding and handling problematic behaviors. In addition, paraprofessionals will learn tools associated with both positive behavior support and applied behavior analysis. Practical ideas will be provided that can be quickly utilized in an instructional setting with a range of students.
For more information and registration: http://www.iidc.indiana.edu/pages/primarily-for-paraprofessionals-workshop
________________________________________
Structured TEACCH®ing Strategies - A Two Day Workshop

Presenter:
Catherine Davies, Educational Consultant, IRCA and TEACCH® Certified Advanced Consultant
Cost: $350
Dates: 10/28/15 & 10/29/15
Overview: This workshop will provide participants with an understanding of how and why to implement structured teaching strategies (as developed by the TEACCH® Autism Program,) such as visual schedules, work systems and deliberately designed work materials. The workshop will emphasize practical strategies that attendees can begin using immediately in their settings.
For more information and registration: http://www.iidc.indiana.edu/pages/structured-teacch-ing-strategies
________________________________________
Collaborative & Proactive Solutions: Understanding and Helping Students with Social, Emotional, and Behavioral Challenges

Presenter: Dr. Ross W. Greene
Cost: $125
Date: 11/5/15
Overview: This is the empirically supported model Dr. Ross Greene describes in his influential books The Explosive Child and Lost at School. The CPS model has transformed thinking and practices in countless schools, inpatient psychiatry units, and residential and juvenile detention facilities, and has been associated with dramatic reductions in disciplinary referrals, detentions, suspensions, seclusions, and physical, chemical and mechanical restraints. The model focuses on solving problems rather than on modifying behavior, emphasizes collaborative rather than unilateral solutions, encourages proactive rather than reactive intervention, de-emphasizes diagnostic categories, and provides practical, research-based tools for assessment and intervention. Participants in this workshop will leave with an understanding of the underpinnings of the model, along with practical assessment and intervention tools that can be brought back to and used in these diverse settings.
For more information and registration: http://www.iidc.indiana.edu/pages/ross-greene-workshop
________________________________________
Expanding Expression Tool Workshop

Presenter: Sara Smith, MS, CCC-SLP
Cost: $100
Dates: 11/17/15 - New Haven; 11/18/15 - Bloomington; 11/19/15 - Carmel;
11/20/15 - New Albany
Overview: This workshop will demonstrate a multi-sensory approach for oral and written expression for preschool through 12th grade that will facilitate improvement on vocabulary skills, the common core learning objectives, comprehension of curriculum material, report writing and expressive language.
For more information and registration: http://www.iidc.indiana.edu/pages/expanding-expression-tool-workshop
________________________________________
Free Parent Group Meetings

Presenters: IRCA Staff
Various dates, topics and locations
Overview: These parent group meetings are free and open to the public. The content will be geared toward family members of individuals who have a diagnosis along the autism spectrum.
For more information: http://www.iidc.indiana.edu/pages/parent-group-meetings

Collaborative & Proactive Solutions Workshop

Collaborative & Proactive Solutions: Understanding and Helping Students with Social, Emotional, and Behavioral Challenges

Presenter:  Ross W. Greene, Ph.D.

November 5, 2015

Sponsored by the Indiana Resource Center for Autism
In Collaboration with Avon Community School Corporation

This is the empirically supported model Dr. Ross Greene describes in his influential books, "The Explosive Child" and "Lost at School." The CPS model has transformed thinking and practices in countless schools, inpatient psychiatry units, and residential and juvenile detention facilities, and has been associated with dramatic reductions in disciplinary referrals, detentions, suspensions, seclusions, and physical, chemical and mechanical restraints. The model represents a significant departure from discipline-as-usual: it focuses on solving problems rather than on modifying behavior, emphasizes collaborative rather than unilateral solutions, encourages proactive rather than reactive intervention, de-emphasizes diagnostic categories, and provides practical, research-based tools for assessment and intervention.

Want to learn more about it? Please visit:
http://www.iidc.indiana.edu/pages/ross-greene-workshop

Mobile App Monday - Presidents vs. Aliens™

Know someone who needs help learning about the presidents of the United States? Presidents vs. Aliens™ is a fun app that will teach the user presidential facts, quotes, nicknames and historical events. The app lets you select which types of questions are asked. Younger kids can start by just focusing on identifying the presidents. Older kids and adults can delve deeper into historical events and presidential facts.

Want to learn more? Please visit:
https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/id427418941

Library Closed Today

The CeDIR Library is closed today due to a staff training. We will re-open at 8:00 a.m. on Monday, October 5th.

Linking Theories to Practice

The Indiana Resource Center for Autism has published an article discussing some of the theories that researchers have developed regarding autism spectrum disorders. Here is a snippet:

"The variation of cognitive impairments in individuals with an autism spectrum disorder (ASD) presents a challenge for developing unifying theories of the core weakness. Over the past twenty years, researchers in psychology have attempted to develop unifying theories of the central deficit present in individuals with ASD. While research into these areas is common, no one theory can truly explain all of the behaviors exhibited by any particular individual with ASD. However, teachers, parents, and individuals on the spectrum may find that viewing strengths and challenges through any one of these lenses provides some insight into appropriate interventions."

Want to read the entire article? Please visit:
http://www.iidc.indiana.edu/pages/linking-theories-to-practice

Library Closed this Friday

Due to a staff training, the CeDIR Library will be closed this Friday, October 2nd. We will re-open on Monday, October 5th at 8:00 a.m.

Asperger Experts

Asperger Experts is an organization co-founded in 2012 by two young men with Asperger's, Danny Raede, and Hayden Mears. They created their business to offer information and support to families and professionals working with individuals on the autism spectrum. Danny and Hayden provide DVDs, audio courses, webinars, coaching sessions and videos to share their first-hand knowledge of what works for people with Asperger's.

Want to learn more about them? Please visit:
http://www.aspergerexperts.com/

Mobile App Monday - Following Directions

Looking for an app to help users with following directions? Following Directions from I Can Do Apps is ideal for parents, teachers, therapists and individuals with auditory processing disorders, receptive language disorders, cognitive-linguistic disorders or attention and focus disorders.

Want to learn more about it? Please visit:
https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/id722392303

When Miles Got Mad

When Miles Got Mad will help young children learn to recognize feelings of anger and learn to control them. When Miles' younger brother Max breaks one of his toys, Miles gets mad! But a glimpse into a mirror shows Miles not a reflection of himself but a fuzzy red monster. The monster talks Miles through his anger and helps him calm down.

Want to check it out? Email us at cedir@indiana.edu or use worldcat.org to find it in a library near you.

Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule 2nd Edition Workshop (ADOS-2)

This workshop will provide a unique opportunity to learn directly from a co-author of the ADOS-2. The five modules of the ADOS-2 will be outlined. Included will be video demonstrations of administration of some of the modules. There will be an opportunity to practice and discuss the scoring criteria. The clinical use of the ADOS-2 will also be discussed.

Date: May 4 and 5, 2016

Location: Lawrence Education Community Center, 6501 Sunnyside Road, Indianapolis, IN 46236

Cost: $380

For more information and to register for this two day workshop, please visit:
http://www.iidc.indiana.edu/index.php?pageId=3619

Looking for an ABA Provider?

Need information to help guide your decision-making process when choosing a provider for ABA therapy?  For a better understanding of what ABA is (and what it is not) and how to investigate providers or centers, the Indiana Resource Center for Autism, in collaboration with others, has put together an article that will address this topic.

To read the full article, please visit:
http://www.iidc.indiana.edu/styles/iidc/defiles/irca/abaproviders2014.pdf

Mobile App Monday - Avaz Lite

Avaz Lite is an AAC app that provides a voice for children with Autism. Avaz allows children with Autism and complex communication needs to use an extensive list of core words and research-based vocabulary to maximize their communications and express emotion. Designed for children with Autism, Avaz helps improve communications through interactive speech therapy sessions, all through touch on your iPad.

Learn more about this app at:
https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/id909574843

Library Closed Tomorrow

The library will be closed tomorrow, September 11th, for an all-day staff training off-site. We will re-open at 8:00 a.m. on Monday, September 14th.

Have a great weekend!

A Little Book about Friendship

A Little Book about Friendship explains what friendship is through the story of Lionel the lion and Louie the sheep. It discusses how to be a good friend by sharing, solving problems together, and forgiving each other.

Interested? Email us at cedir@indiana.edu to check out this title or use worldcat.org to find it in a library near you.

Interactive Graphic Organizers

Looking for interactive graphic organizers? The folks at Houghton Mifflin Harcourt have several to choose from. Their collection of interactive organizers also offers teaching notes as well as a help page for opening .pdf files. Several different types of organizers are available including those for:

• Generating, Identifying, and Organizing Details
• Determining Main Idea and Drawing Conclusions 
• Order and Sequence
• And more

To view the whole list, please visit:
https://my.hrw.com/nsmedia/intgos/html/igo.htm

Holiday Hours

In observance of the Labor Day holiday next week, we will close today at 4:00 p.m. and re-open on Tuesday, September 8th at 8:00 a.m.

Have a happy holiday!

Ruby's Studio: The Feelings Show

In The feelings show, magical host, Ruby, invites kids into her beautiful art studio for a day of fun and learning through engaging animation, art projects and original music. Children will explore ways to identify, express and move through their feelings as Ruby offers them fun, creative tools to benefit their everyday lives.

Want to check it out? Email us at cedir@indiana.edu or use worldcat.org to find it in a library near you.

The survival guide for making and being friends

The survival guide for making and being friends can help kids improve their social skills so they can better enjoy the benefits of friendship. Practical advice covers everything from breaking the ice to developing friendships to overcoming problems. True-to-life vignettes, “what would you do?” scenarios, voluminous examples, quizzes to test learning, “Try This” assignments for practicing techniques, and advice from real kids make this an accessible life-skills handbook. -book description

Want to check it out? Email us at cedir@indiana.edu or use worldcat.org to find it in a library near you.

Mobile App Monday - Remember the Milk

Looking for a fun app to help with organization skills? Remember the Milk features:
• Add and complete tasks on the go.
• Sync with Remember The Milk online (limit once every 24 hours). Great for backing up your tasks and notes.
• Organize the way you want to with priorities, due dates, time estimates, repeating, lists, tags, and more.
• Search your tasks and notes, and save your favorite searches as Smart Lists.
• See tasks nearby and plan the best way to get things done.
• Get reminded via email, SMS, and instant messenger; see www.rmilk.com/reminders to set up.
• And more!

For more information on this app, please visit:
https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/id293561396

Sisterhood of the Spectrum: An Asperger Chick's Guide to Life

In Sisterhood of the Spectrum: An Asperger Chick's Guide to Life, the author draws on her own real-life experiences rather than preaching from textbooks. She covers everything you need (and want!) to know, from body shapes and love interests to bullying, friendships and how to discover and celebrate your unique, beautiful self.

Want to check it out? Email us at cedir@indiana.edu or use worldcat.org to find it in a library near you.

The autism playbook for teens

The autism playbook for teens: Imagination-based mindfulness activities to calm yourself, build independence, & connect with others offers a strengths-based approach to help teens with autism spectrum develop social skills, strengthen communication, and thrive. The activities contained in each chapter are custom-designed to work with the unique perspectives, sensory processing, neurological strengths and challenges that teens with autism bring to their encounters with the social world.

Want to check it out? Email us at cedir@indiana.edu or use worldcat.org to find it in a library near you.

Free Webinar with Temple and Eustacia

Eustacia Cutler talks with Temple Grandin:

A Mother and Daughter Chat

Monday, August 31, 2015 

Temple Grandin, Eustacia Cutler, and Autism Fund invites you to attend a Web seminar using WebEx. This event requires registration..

Topic: FREE webinar Conversation with Temple Grandin and Eustacia Cutler 

Host: Temple Granding Eustacia Cutler Autism Fund

Date and Time:

Monday, August 31, 2015 1:00 pm, Eastern Daylight Time (New York, GMT-04:00)

Monday, August 31, 2015 11:00 am, Mountain Daylight Time (Denver, GMT-06:00)

Monday, August 31, 2015 10:00 am, Pacific Daylight Time (San Francisco, GMT-07:00)

Monday, August 31, 2015 12:00 pm, Central Daylight Time (Chicago, GMT-05:00)

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To register for the online event

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1. Go to https://familiestogetherevents.webex.com/familiestogetherevents/onstage/g.php?MTID=e1b0a15d6062ea699ea833c5a291ea014

2. Click "Register".

3. On the registration form, enter your information and then click "Submit".

Once the host approves your registration, you will receive a confirmation email message with instructions on how to join the event.

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For assistance

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You can contact Chris Curry at:

curry@familiestogether.org

Programming for kids on the spectrum

An article in the Indiana Daily Student last week highlighted award-winning library programming for children with different sensory needs. Mary Frasier, a children’s services librarian at the Monroe County Public Library who helped develop the program last summer, said the program is the result of a combination of a disabilities-focused library subcommittee, a class through the Association of Specialized and Cooperative Library Agencies and work with the Indiana Institute on Disability and 
Community.

To read the entire article, please visit:
http://www.idsnews.com/article/2015/08/storytelling-for-the-senses

Mobile App Monday - Functional Communication System Lite

The Functional Communication System uses real images, audio and video rather than symbols and can be customized. Using the camera and microphone on the iPad 2 (or any images and videos synced to your media roll), you can create a custom user interface which reflects the user's world.

Want to know more about it? Please visit:
https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/id496585489

Expanding Expression Tool Workshop

Expanding Expression Tool Workshop

A Multi-Sensory Approach for Improved Written and Oral Expression

Research consistently indicates that individuals with an autism spectrum disorder (ASD) often have difficulties with oral and written expression. This workshop will demonstrate a multi-sensory approach for oral and written expression for preschool through 12th grade that will facilitate improvement on vocabulary skills, the common core learning objectives, comprehension of curriculum material, report writing and expressive language.

For more information about this workshop and to register, please visit:
http://www.iidc.indiana.edu/pages/expanding-expression-tool-workshop

My autistic awakening: Unlocking the potential for a life well lived

My autistic awakening: Unlocking the potential for a life well lived offers a positive vision of how an autistic life can develop and includes insight into the benefits of being “on the spectrum” alongside the very real picture of its challenges. Addressing the culture of disability and negativity that surrounds so much of the public perception of the Autism Spectrum, the book presents a more moderate and perhaps more objective assessment of her own life experiences, as well as the potential for others on the Spectrum. -from the book description

Want to check it out? Email us at cedir@indiana.edu or use worldcat.org to find it in a library near you.

Indiana’s Medicaid Waiver Programs

Looking for an explanation of the Medicaid Waiver options in Indiana? The Indiana Resource Center for Autism has published an article containing information on the four current waiver options and one that has closed. It also covers the application process, wait list and appeals.

To view the entire article, please visit:
http://www.iidc.indiana.edu/pages/medicaid-waiver-programs-home-and-community-based-services-for-adults-and-children

Autism in young adult novels: An annotated bibliography

In Autism in Young Adult Novels: An Annotated Bibliography, Marilyn Irwin, Annette Y. Goldsmith, and Rachel Applegate identify and assess teen fiction with autism content. In the first section, the authors analyze how characters with ASD are presented. Where do they live and go to school? Do they have friends? Do they have good relationships with their family? How are they treated by others? The authors also consider whether autism is accurately presented. This discussion is followed by a comprehensive bibliography of books that feature a character identified as being on the autism spectrum. -book description

Interested? Email us at cedir@indiana.edu to check out this title.

Autism Parent Group Meetings

The Indiana Resource Center for Autism has published the schedule for parent group meetings for fall and spring. These parent support group meetings are free and open to the public. However, the content will be geared toward family members of individuals who have a diagnosis along the autism spectrum. The information will not be geared toward professionals. If you are a professional and know of family members in your area that may benefit from such a meeting, you are encouraged to forward the relevant information.

To view the entire list, please visit:
http://www.iidc.indiana.edu/pages/parent-group-meetings

Grant Funding Opportunities

The Indiana Resource Center for Autism has posted an article on grant funding that might be of interest to you. "This article outlines grants available nationally, statewide, and through private local community organizations for families, educators, and professional organizations in Indiana." In addition to listing grants that are available, the author has tips on looking and applying for grants.

To read the article in its entirety, please visit:
http://www.iidc.indiana.edu/index.php?pageId=3717

Structured TEACCH®-ing Strategies

October 28 and 29, 2015 - A Two Day Workshop

Sponsored by the Indiana Resource Center for Autism
In Collaboration with MSD of Warren Township

To be held at the Warren Township Education & Community Center
975 North Post Road, Indianapolis, IN 46219

Research consistently indicates that individuals with an autism spectrum disorder (ASD) respond favorably to a structured environment. This workshop will provide participants with an understanding of how and why to implement structured teaching strategies (as developed by the TEACCH® Autism Program,) such as visual schedules, work systems and deliberately designed work materials. The workshop will emphasize practical strategies that attendees can begin using immediately in their settings.

To learn more about this workshop and to register, please visit:
http://www.iidc.indiana.edu/index.php?pageId=3569

Mobile App Monday - Classkick

"With Classkick, students work assignments on their iPad and get help from teachers and peers. Teachers create assignments, see all their students’ work in real-time, and give LOTS of student feedback. Best of all, students can help each other anonymously." -iTunes

Want to learn more about this app? Please visit:
https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/classkick/id909904332

Using the Movie Inside Out to Teach Social Thinking

In an article posted by the Indiana Resource Center for Autism, the authors suggest that Pixar's new movie, "Inside Out," is a good "depiction of how our minds react in social situations and create, process, and alter memories.  This is in large part due to director Pete Docter’s work with neurologists and psychologists who wanted to understand how the brain influences personalities. Altogether, these features provide Inside Out with natural potential for teaching social thinking in individuals with autism spectrum disorders."

To read the entire article, please visit:
http://www.iidc.indiana.edu/pages/using-the-movie-inside-out-to-teach-social-thinking

QUEST Program II: Social skills curriculum for middle school students with autism

Quest Program II is a social skills program created to help middle school students with autism who struggle with social skills and pragmatic language. Developed by a school social worker and speech language pathologist, the program uses an intensive, proactive approach to teaching social skills, combining written instruction with games, activities, and student interaction. -book description

Want to check it out? Email us at cedir@indiana.edu.

Autism and body language

In an article on Smithsonian.com yesterday, we learned of a new study that challenges the misconception that kids on the autism spectrum lack empathy. The article suggests that kids with autism can read emotions through body language since it is often difficult for them to look at faces and make eye contact.

Read more about it at:
http://www.smithsonianmag.com/smart-news/kids-autism-can-read-emotions-body-language-180956137/

Mobile App Monday - Yes/No Questions

Looking for help with teaching children to answer yes/no questions? Yes/No Questions offers five levels of questions beginning with simple questions and continuing to complex questions and comparing two objects.

Want to learn more about it? Please visit:
https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/id827141234

Apps for Autism, revised and expanded

For those who are new to the wonderful world of apps, worry not! Apps for Autism provides helpful sections on how to get started, including: Choosing an iDevice, Basic iDevice Operations, Opening an Account, How to Download an App from iTunes, and more.  Plus, there are more than 200 apps for autism, and this book will guide you through them so you can confidently utilize today’s technology to maximize your child or student’s success.

Want to check it out? Email us at cedir@indiana.edu or use worldcat.org to find it in a library near you.

Save the Date!

Collaborative & Proactive Solutions: Understanding and Helping Students with Social, Emotional, and Behavioral Challenges

Presenter:  Ross W. Greene, Ph.D.

November 5, 2015

Sponsored by the Indiana Resource Center for Autism
In Collaboration with Avon Community School Corporation

This is the empirically supported model Dr. Ross Greene describes in his influential books, "The Explosive Child" and "Lost at School." The CPS model has transformed thinking and practices in countless schools, inpatient psychiatry units, and residential and juvenile detention facilities, and has been associated with dramatic reductions in disciplinary referrals, detentions, suspensions, seclusions, and physical, chemical and mechanical restraints. The model represents a significant departure from discipline-as-usual: it focuses on solving problems rather than on modifying behavior, emphasizes collaborative rather than unilateral solutions, encourages proactive rather than reactive intervention, de-emphasizes diagnostic categories, and provides practical, research-based tools for assessment and intervention.

Want to learn more about it? Please visit:
http://www.iidc.indiana.edu/pages/ross-greene-workshop

Mobile App Monday - Special Olympics

The 2015 Special Olympics World Games opened in Los Angeles this past weekend in conjunction with the 25th anniversary of the signing of the Americans with Disabilities Act. More than 6,000 athletes and 2,000 coaches representing 165 countries are participating this year. Want to keep up with the news from the games? You can with The LA2015 App. It's a fun, new way for you to keep in touch and join the global community.

Want more information on the app? Please visit:
http://www.la2015.org/the-la2015-app

A Year of Social Skills Activities and Games

A Year of Social Skills Activities and Games for Children with High Functioning Autism and/or Mental Health Challenges

Presenter:  Joel Shaul, LCSW (http://autismteachingstrategies.com/)

September 25, 2015 - Indianapolis, IN

Sponsored by the Indiana Resource Center for Autism in Collaboration with the Metropolitan School District of Lawrence Township

This workshop aims to equip teachers, speech-language pathologists and mental health professionals with abundant, ready-to-use lessons, activities and games that they can use immediately in their work. Among the many games and activities featured are: Games and visuals to promote learning about peers; using a toy balance and chain visuals to practice “balance” and “staying connected” in conversation; games, worksheets and free online videos on dealing with troubling emotions; a card game on how to know when not to tattle; a unique card-based activity for teaching teen boys how to approach girls.

To learn more about this workshop and to register, please visit:
http://www.iidc.indiana.edu/pages/joel-shaul-workshop


Families can apply for Consumer Investment Funds from the Governor's Council for People with Disabilities to attend this workshop and/or other training events. For more information and an application see:  http://www.in.gov/gpcpd/2328.htm.

Primarily for Paraprofessionals: Teaching Students on the Autism Spectrum and Addressing Challenging Behaviors

Do you work with students who have challenging or difficult behaviors? Are you working with students who have learning difficulties? Are you working with students on the autism spectrum or with other learning or behavioral challenges?

If so, then the Indiana Resource Center for Autism has a training for you. Primarily for Paraprofessionals: Teaching Students on the Autism Spectrum and Addressing Challenging Behaviors will be held in several locations around the state in September and October.

To learn more about these trainings, please visit:
http://www.iidc.indiana.edu/pages/primarily-for-paraprofessionals-workshop

Preparing for School

Getting the kids ready for a new school year? The folks at the Indiana Resource Center for Autism have posted a couple of articles to help you. In the first one, "For Parents: Preparing for the School Year," Dr. Cathy Pratt offers "a few tips to help you become a proactive and positive advocate for your son/daughter." The second article, authored by Kristi Lofland, is "How to Get Your Child with ASD Ready for a New School Year Using Visual Information" and offers tips on visually supporting your child. Below are the links to each article.

For Parents: Preparing for the School Year
http://www.iidc.indiana.edu/index.php?pageId=3568

How to Get Your Child with ASD Ready for a New School Year Using Visual Information
http://www.iidc.indiana.edu/pages/How-to-get-your-child-with-asd-ready-for-a-new-school-year

Curriculum Materials and Programs for Individuals on the Autism Spectrum

Looking for curriculum materials for students on the spectrum? The Indiana Resource Center for Autism has updated its article on the subject and posted it online. It contains a listing of examples of curriculum and programs that could be used to teach subjects ranging from math to living skills.

Want to look it over? Please visit:
http://www.iidc.indiana.edu/index.php?pageId=3712

Mobile App Monday - aacorn AAC

Looking for a word suggestion app for your child with speech delays? With aacorn AAC, your child makes a word choice and new branches with suggestions for the next word in a sentence present themselves AUTOMATICALLY as needed. No more ‘Hunting and Pecking’ for words hidden in grids or folders. No need to be able to use a keyboard. No requirement to have an exceptional memory to find words, and no more stick figure drawings or robotic voices.

Want to learn more about it? Please visit:
https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/id732419715

Workshop Announcement: Making Sense of the VB-MAPP

Date: September 30, 2015
Location:  Impact Institute, 1607 E. Dowling Street, Kendallville, IN 46755

Date: October 14, 2015
Location:  Bloomington, IN - Exact Location To Be Determined

The purpose of this presentation is to provide an overview of verbal behavior and describe how to conduct the Verbal Behavior Milestones Assessment and Placement Program (VB-MAPP) with children with autism. Then, we will describe how to interpret VB-MAPP results. Finally, we will provide strategies for implementing behavior-change programs, based on assessment results, in public school settings.

For more information and to register, please visit:

http://www.iidc.indiana.edu/pages/verbal-behavior-workshop

Reminder to apply for respite funding

Apply for Caregiver Support (respite) Funding beginning July 1 for the fiscal year 2016. Applications received during fiscal year 2015 for Caregiver Support Services do not carry over to fiscal year 2016. Each fiscal year an application must be completed; Here is more information Caregiver Support Services:
• The program is 100 percent state funded and available on a first-come, first-served basis;
• As long as the Caregiver Support Services funds are available, services may be approved when
an individual meets the state eligibility definition of intellectual and developmental disabilities and the primary caregiver selects an approved provider;
• Caregiver Support Services are available to the primary caregiver if the targeted individual is not currently receiving and does not begin to receive other services from BDDS or other related state programs such as (but not limited to) Vocational Rehabilitation Services, First Steps, CHOICE, or a Medicaid Waiver;
• Applications may be made online, by mail or in-person;
• Online applications are available on this Division of Disability and Rehabilitative Services (DDRS) webpage: https://ddrsprovider.fssa.in.gov/BDDS/ConsumerInfo/CaregiverSupportRequest.aspx;
• To apply by mail or in-person please call or visit your local Bureau of Developmental Disabilities Services (BDDS) District Office to request an application. Contact information for your local BDDS Office can be found on this webpage: http://www.in.gov/fssa/ddrs/4088.htm.

Initial budgets will be approved in the amount of $500 for each eligible individual regardless of the number of eligible individuals residing in the home. Successive budgets may be requested by the Caregiver Support Services provider and will be reviewed on a case by case basis. Any new budget is dependent upon available funds. Here is a link to frequently asked questions about the Caregiver Supports Program: http://www.in.gov/fssa/files/Caregiver_Supports_FAQ.pdf.

From Marci Wheeler, Social Work Specialist at the Indiana Resource Center for Autism

IU receives funding for autism study

BLOOMINGTON, Ind.--A $900,000 grant to Indiana University from the National Institutes of Health’s Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute for Child Health and Human Development will fund one of the first basic science investigations into potential connections between fever and the relief of some symptoms of autism.

To read the entire article, please visit:
http://news.iu.edu/releases/iu/2015/07/autism-fever-study.shtml

Sesame Street and Autism

Sesame Street is proud to partner with autism organizations throughout the country to embark on a nationwide initiative, “See Amazing in All Children.”

Our goal is to reduce stigma by celebrating the commonalities and differences among all children, while supporting families of children with autism through resources that reduce the stress of everyday routines.

Because every child is unique. Every child is amazing.

Sign up to find out more at:
http://www.sesameworkshop.org/autism/

Save the Date - September 25, 2015

A Year of Social Skills Activities and Games for 

Children with High Functioning Autism 

and/or Mental Health Challenges

Presenter: Joel Shaul, LCSW

Date: September 25, 2015

Hosted by and Location: Lawrence Education Community Center, 6501 Sunnyside Road, Indianapolis, IN 46236

This workshop aims to equip teachers, speech-language pathologists and mental health professionals with abundant, ready-to-use lessons, activities and games that they can use immediately in their work. Each participant will be shown how to access Joel’s website, AutismTeachingStrategies.com, to download and use dozens of free printout games, activities, worksheets, slide presentations and lessons on the topics of conversation, relationships and emotional regulation. During this workshop, the presenter will clearly explain the materials, and in work groups participants will practice using them.

Cost: The registration fee is $95

For more information and to register, please visit:
http://www.iidc.indiana.edu/pages/joel-shaul

Mobile App Monday - Story Patch

Looking for an app that will let kids build stories in fun and creative ways? Story Patch has over 800 illustrations and includes customizable characters to help your child make the story look exactly the way it should.

Want to learn more about this app? Please visit:
https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/id388613157

Closed on Friday, July 3rd

In observance of the Independence Day holiday, the library will be closed on Friday, July 3rd.

Wishing everyone a safe and happy 4th of July!

Save the Dates!

The Indiana Resource Center for Autism is announcing two new workshops that will be offered later in the year.

A Year of Social Skills Activities and Games for Children with High Functioning Autism and/or Mental Health Challenges
Presented by:  Joel Shaul, LCSW
Date:  September 25, 2015
Location:  Lawrence Education Community Center, Indianapolis, IN

Workshop Overview
This workshop aims to equip teachers, speech-language pathologists and mental health professionals with abundant, ready-to-use lessons, activities and games that they can use immediately in their work. Each participant will be shown how to access Joel’s website, AutismTeachingStrategies.com, to download and use dozens of free printout games, activities, worksheets, slide presentations and lessons on the topics of conversation, relationships and emotional regulation.
 
Collaborative & Proactive Solutions: Understanding and Helping Students with Social, Emotional, and Behavioral Challenges
Presented by:  Ross W. Greene, Ph.D.
Dates:  November 5, 2015
Location:  Avon Middle School North, Avon, IN

Workshop Overview
This is the empirically supported model Dr. Ross Greene described his influential books The Explosive Child and Lost at School.  The CPS model has transformed thinking and practices in countless schools, inpatient psychiatry units, and residential and juvenile detention facilities, and has been associated with dramatic reductions in disciplinary referrals, detentions, suspensions, seclusions, and physical, chemical, and mechanical restraints.  The model represents a significant departure from discipline-as-usual:  it focuses on solving problems rather than on modifying behavior, emphasizes collaborative rather than unilateral solutions, encourages proactive rather than reactive intervention, de-emphasizes diagnostic categories, and provides practical, research-based tools for assessment and intervention. Participants in this workshop will leave with an understanding of the underpinnings of the model, along with practical assessment and intervention tools that can be brought back to and used in these diverse settings.

Registration for these workshops will be available soon so check back often!