Alphabetical Listing of Autism Resources



Download 128.8 Kb.
Date13.05.2017
Size128.8 Kb.
#17940
Alphabetical Listing of Autism Resources

This list is presented for information purposes only. Additional information regarding any of the agencies/organizations should be directed to the agency or organization in question. By compiling this list, the BCPS Department of Special Education and Student Support Services in no way endorses or promotes any of the agencies/organizations below. Some may require a fee for service.
An electronic copy containing active links to the websites and documents listed below can be requested by contacting Debbie Page at dpage2@bcps.org in the Department of Special Education and Student Support Services.

Abilities Network


Abilities Network Autism Services enables individuals with autism to function as meaningfully and independently as possible in their homes and community, while providing their families with the strategies and resources necessary to assist their children in reaching their maximum potential. Autism Services provides family training, transition planning into adult services, and after school therapeutic integration programming.

Abilities Network through Project ACT has developed the Autism Inclusion Project which supports children (birth to age 12) who are being evaluated for or have a diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder, and who are attending child care or out of school time programs in Baltimore County or Baltimore City. Children may be referred for FREE supportive services by their child care program, parent or guardian. With parent permission inclusion specialists may design an individual support plan and work with program staff to support and fully include children with an autism diagnosis in their child care setting.

410-828-7700 http://abilitiesnetwork.org/our-programs/autism-services-/autism-services.html


Allied Sports

BCPS Allied Sports is a totally inclusive program that affords high school students with disabilities an equal opportunity to participate in their interscholastic sports alongside their non-disabled peers



410-887-2328 http://www.bcps.org/offices/athletics/alliedSports/history.html


Arc Baltimore

Dedicated to helping people with developmental disabilities make the most of their potential since 1949, the Arc Baltimore is one of the nation's largest and most respected organizations of its kind. The Family and Children Division (Family & Children Division - 410-296-7667) offers a variety of supportive programs for children and their families with the goal of honoring family choices, providing opportunities for parents and caregivers to learn about resources and strategies, and to offer networks that build partnerships and promote self-advocacy.

The Arc Baltimore knows that parents and caregivers face many challenges in navigating the systems of public and private assistance, special education, and other resources. Their staff is knowledgeable about community resources and can help families make appropriate connections for recreation, equipment, special education advocacy, and a host of matters.

The Arc Baltimore's Respite Care Program provides financial assistance for occasional, short-term temporary physical and emotional relief to families caring for children or adults with developmental disabilities living in their home. It is an income-based program.

The ARC Baltimore also provides parent groups like:



Guy Talk - Relax in a casual setting to talk about the challenges and joys of having a child with special needs the third Thursday of each month from 6:30 to 8:30 P.M. at our offices located at 7215 York Road in Towson.

Moms Understand - Share challenges and joys with other moms the first Wednesday evening of each month from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at our offices located at 7215 York Road in Towson.

Parents' Day Out - Designed for parents of children with special needs who need some time to attend to much needed chores while their children have fun in a nurturing environment.

Menucha: Supports Jewish children with special needs and their families in Baltimore. Menucha enables children to connect to their Jewish heritage and to become a vital part of their community.
410-296-2272 http://www.baltimorearc.org/


Autism Service Dogs of America

Provider of service dogs for children with autism throughout the United States, Autism Service Dogs of America is a non-profit, community based organization. In 2002, Priscilla Taylor, founder and director, incorporated her love of dogs and her background as a special education teacher and formed a service dog agency to serve the needs of children.


http://autismservicedogsofamerica.com/


Autism Speaks

Autism Speaks is the nation’s largest autism science and advocacy organization. The program’s goal is to change the future of individuals who are impacted by autism spectrum disorders. Autism Speaks is devoted to bringing the autism community together to address this disorder that is on the rise and to do everything possible to raise public awareness, raise funds for research, and give hope to everyone who is impacted by autism.
Autism Speaks provides downloadable Tool Kits that cover a wide array of topics.

100 Day Kit

Asperger Syndrome and High Functioning Autism Tool Kit

ATN/AIR-P An Introduction to Behavioral Health Treatments

ATN/AIR-P Blood Draw Tool Kit

ATN/AIR-P Dental Professionals' Tool Kit

ATN/AIR-P Medication Decision Aid

ATN/AIR-P Parent's Guide to Toilet Training in Autism

ATN/AIR-P Parent’s Guide to Applied Behavior Analysis

ATN/AIR-P Sleep Tool Kit-Parent Booklet and Quick Tips

ATN/AIR-P Visual Supports and Autism Spectrum Disorder

Challenging Behaviors Tool Kit

Dental Tool Kit

Employment Tool Kit

Family Support Tool Kits

Housing and Residential Supports

Individualized Education Program (IEP) Guide and Other School Resources

Manual de los 100 Días

Participant's Guide to Autism Drug Research

School Community Tool Kit

Talking to Parents About Autism Kit

Tips for Successful Haircuts

Transition Tool Kit
888-288-4762 or en Español  888-772-9050 http://www.autismspeaks.org/


Autism Society of Baltimore-Chesapeake

The Autism Society of Baltimore-Chesapeake (ASBC) is an all-volunteer, non-profit organization dedicated to acting as a voice for all people along the autism spectrum in the greater Baltimore area. The ASBC is an affiliate of The Autism Society of America, the nation’s leading grassroots autism organization which exists to improve the lives of all affected by autism. Most members of ASBC are parents of children and adults with autism, but membership also includes individuals with autism, their siblings, grandparents and other relatives, as well as professionals and students in the teaching and medical fields. It exists as a resource for anyone who needs help and support with the difficult job of raising, working with, and/or advocating for a person diagnosed with autism.

The ASBC provides monthly support groups at Mt. Washington Pediatric Hospital on the first Thursday of every month. Teleconferencing is also available for those who have difficulty attending the meetings in person.

The ASBC recognizes that the diagnosis of autism can be isolating for a family. It provides monthly social events for families to attend. These socials are either free or low cost to its members. The ASBC also sponsors sensory friendly movies at the AMC Theaters in White Marsh, Owings Mills and Columbia.

The ASBC has a bi-monthly newsletter and calendar of events on its website which is comprehensive in terms of identifying autism related events in and around Baltimore. The ASBC also has a library of books and other resources housed at the Mt. Washington Pediatric Hospital and can be accessed at the monthly support group meetings.

Members are entitled to up to $100/year in scholarship money to attend autism related workshops and conferences. Additional funding is available for respite care and therapeutic recreational activities to its members through annual grants made to the Maggie’s Light organization.

The Adult Autism Resource Group is a chapter of the Autism Society in Baltimore which supports the parents of teens and adults with autism. The monthly meetings can help guide parents through the transition process and help in the journey to and throughout adulthood.
410-655-7933 www.baltimoreautismsociety.org


The Autism Waiver in Maryland

The autism waiver, through Medical Assistance, will allow eligible children with Autism Spectrum Disorders to receive specific waiver services in order to support them in their homes and communities. Children who apply to the waiver are referred from the registry to MSDE in chronological order.

For more information, contact:
Baltimore County Public Schools 410-887-4130

To put your child on the waiver waiting list or check to see the current status of your child on the list, contact: Autism Waiver Registry 866-417-3480


Baltimore Area Special Hockey



Baltimore County Department of Recreation & Parks’ Office of Therapeutic Recreation Services
The Baltimore Saints is an ice hockey program for both children and adults with a traumatic brain injury or intellectual disability such as autism. The program provides participants the opportunity to play ice hockey in an environment adapted to each of their abilities. Special Hockey is not only recreational, but therapeutic. It emphasizes social interaction, self reliance, concentration. and willingness to adapt to new experiences with a sense of accomplishment and pride.

410-370-1818 http://www.leaguelineup.com/welcome.asp?url=baltimoresaintshockey

The Baltimore County Office of Therapeutic Recreation Services provides a wide variety of recreation opportunities and services for individuals with disabilities countywide. The programs are designed specifically for individuals with disabilities, as well as inclusion into general recreation programs. Distributed twice a year (Fall/Winter and Spring/Summer), the Leisure Resources newsletter lists program opportunities for individuals with disabilities. Visit the website for a copy of the current newsletter.


410-887-5370 http://www.baltimorecountymd.gov/Agencies/recreation/programdivision/therapeutic/index.html


Baltimore County Family Navigator

Baltimore County Family Navigator Services offers support and guidance while helping families identify their strengths and challenges, find resources, and develop a plan of action. This free service is available to Baltimore County families who have a child with intensive needs related to mental/behavioral health or a developmental disability.



Request an appointment:


A Family Navigator is the parent or caregiver of a child with special needs, who has learned from the challenges of being a caregiver, and is knowledgeable about Baltimore County support services and delivery systems. A Family Navigator can work with you over the phone or meet with you at a time and location that is convenient for you to help identify your strengths and challenges and develop a plan of action.

Family Navigator Services offers a Kinship Care Program. The challenges of raising grandchildren and other related children can severely stretch the resources a family has available to them. As a kinship care provider, you may be eligible for certain resources to help you raise the child you are caring for.


Read More http://www.catholiccharities-md.org/assets/images/redesign/arrow.png http://www.catholiccharities-md.org/family-navigator/news/kinship-care-progral.html


The Family Resource Academy may be just what you need for support, strength, and understanding that can enhance your ability to parent a child with intensive behavioral health needs. In partnership with professional child development specialists and veteran family members, The Family Resource Academy has designed a series of workshops just for you, and they are FREE to all Baltimore County residents and anyone receiving services through Catholic Charities. Childcare is provided on site. Transportation is available on a limited basis for Baltimore County families who need this support to attend.
Read More http://www.catholiccharities-md.org/assets/images/redesign/arrow.png http://www.catholiccharities-md.org/family-navigator/news/family-resource-academy.html


410-252-4700 ext. 265 http://www.catholiccharities-md.org/family-navigator/

Baltimore County Public Schools’ Special Education Resource Center

The BCPS Resource Center supports parents of children with disabilities, ages birth to 21. Its mission is to promote positive, effective partnerships within the school community. Staffed by parents of children with disabilities, the center activities include, but are not limited to, the following services:



  • Maintaining a lending library of articles, newsletters, books, and videotapes on a wide range of special education topics such as special education law, types of disabilities, support groups and recreational opportunities.

    • Special Education Resource Center Lending Library Brochure

    • Browse the collection online 24/7 at http://destiny.bcps.org

  • Seeking ways to encourage and strengthen communication between parents and school personnel.

    • Parents Quick Reference

  • Teaming with educators to teach free workshops.

    • Important Parent Workshops

  • Making community presentations to both parent groups and school staff.

  • Representing special education issues and concerns of parents and students with special needs.

  • Directing parents to available community resources.

  • Establishing a family-to-family support network.

  • Offering support to parents who need someone to talk to on an individual basis in a confidential, supportive atmosphere.

  • Coordinating the PTA Special Education Liaison Project.

    • Special Education Liaison Brochure



Parent Publications 

 

Autism Waiver

Social Skills Resources 

Spring 2013 Hand In Hand Parent Newsletter

Tutoring Resources 

Parent Surrogate Application 

SECAC Meeting Schedule 

Recreation Programs 

Special Education Acronyms 

Respite Resources 

 

 


 

MSDE Publications 

 

Procedural Safeguards 

 

Building IEPs with Maryland Families 

 

Understanding the Evaluation, Eligibility and Individualized Education Process   








410-887-5443 http://www.bcps.org/offices/special_ed/parent-resources.html

B’MoreAbilities Special Art Center

B’MoreAbilities Special Art Center offers recreational classes in dance, music, theater, art and more. Their mission is to promote performing and visual arts with particular emphasis on fostering creative expression for persons with developmental and/or physical disabilities. Visit their website to find more information on the variety of programs, camps and events offered for all ages.


443-769-0507 http://www.basac.org/

Boy Scouts of America (Baltimore Area Council)

Boy Scouts of America works with parents to include boys age six years and older with special needs into community units or assists parents in locating special needs units throughout Maryland appropriate for their children.
443-573-2500 http://www.baltimorebsa.org/volunteer-resources/scouts-with-disabilities/38866


Girl Scouts of Central MD

The Girl Scouts of Central Maryland works with parents to include girls age 5 and older with special needs into community units or assists parents in locating Special needs Units throughout Maryland appropriate for their children.


1-800-492-2521 www.gscm.org

The IMAGE Center of Maryland


The IMAGE Center is dedicated to the creation of a learning and thinking environment that challenges concepts of what people with disabilities can do. They see the potential for people to become full contributing partners in their families, on the job, and in the community.

Peer Mentoring


Independent Living Coordinators employed by the Center are individuals with disabilities who share similar life experiences to those coming into the Center and are able to share their experience in a manner that will assist those managing the effects of the disability in their lives. Participants develop a plan to achieve maximum independence and set goals toward accomplishing that independence. Participants learn about the needs and resources required for meeting their individual independent living goals. Independent Living Specialists help individuals set achievable goals that best fit their desires and lifestyles. Peer counseling can be provided individually or in a group setting.

Independent Living Skills Training


Programs are designed to teach individuals with disabilities the skills necessary for acquiring, maintaining, or increasing their independence. Individual and group training can be provided in personal assistant management, building self-esteem, money management, navigating ones environment, and self-advocacy.

Information and Referral


Center staff members identify resources, services, and service providers in public, private, and community organizations that can assist individuals with their independent living goals.

Individual Advocacy


Staff members train and assist individuals with disabilities in understanding and exercising their civil rights regarding government and other service providers. We regularly educate public officials about the capacities and skills of individuals with disabilities and promote rational nondiscriminatory Legislation that advances the full inclusion of people with disabilities in society.

Education Transition Program


Staff identifies transition resources and match individuals with appropriate services and service providers based on goals set by the student. Whether choosing the path of higher education, continued adult program education or employment, staff works to assist students with disabilities in making an easy transition into the adult world.

Travel Training


Travel training is a step-by-step individually customized process designed to help people with disabilities and senior citizens to use the MTA fixed-route Local Bus, Light Rail and Subway. Travel training will not affect eligibility for MTA Mobility. The IMAGE Center also offers group and classroom travel trainings. For more information please contact Amanda Taylor at ataylor@imagemd.org or call 443-275-9393.
 410-982-6311 http://www.imagemd.org/index.html


Jewish Community Center (JCC)


The Baltimore JCC’s department for people with special needs provides appropriate social and recreational programs for children, teens and adults with disabilities. Their programs give participants the opportunity to interact with their peers, enhance self-esteem and improve social skills. Whenever possible, they encourage the integration of participants into JCC classes, camps, after-school programs, groups and events. 



JCC’s Special Needs Programs for Children:
Toddlers in Motion- Ages 18 months - 3 years   

Sunday Funday- Ages 5 - 21 years 


Art Made With Heart- Ages 8 – 21 years

Karma Dogs: Saving Dogs, Serving People- Ages 5 - 15 years


Check out the website for additional summer programs.

For more information call Stacy Israel, Special Needs Department or email sisrael@jcc.org.

410.559.3576 http://www.jcc.org/youthfamily/special-needs/




Kennedy Krieger Institute’s Center for Autism and Related Disorders (CARD)

The Center for Autism and Related Disorders (CARD) at Kennedy Krieger Institute is a multifaceted, interdisciplinary program serving children, families, and professionals in the autism spectrum disorders (ASD) community. CARD combines research, clinical service, a therapeutic day program, and training programs to unlock the potential of children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD), enrich their life experiences, empower patients, and promote the well-being of families through evidence-based practices. One of their major endeavors is developing effective new models of care for families and providers, whether locally, nationally, or internationally.

The Center has four primary programs:


  • Clinical Programs

  • Achievements Program

  • Outreach and Training

  • REACH Research Program


443-923-7680 www.card.kennedykrieger.org


Kennedy Krieger Institute’s Pediatric Developmental Disorders Clinic


The mission of the Pediatric Developmental Disorders (PDD) Clinic is to provide consultation and intervention to caregivers of children with a wide variety of developmental disorders (e.g., pervasive development disorders spectrum, intellectual disabilities). Intervention focuses on empirically based approaches to behavior management and addresses both behavioral excesses (e.g., aggression, self-injury, tantrums) and behavioral deficits (e.g., compliance, self-help skills, toileting). For children with language delays and behavior disorders, there is a strong emphasis on providing training to develop verbal behavior (vocal and/or sign language). Services are provided primarily to families and school staff. Sessions are conducted primarily in the clinic, but also take place in the school and the child's home, when indicated. Education of the caregivers is also considered an integral function of the clinic including provision of information pertaining to community resources, child development and special education.
The PDD Clinic provides a range of behavioral services for children, adolescents and adults who are diagnosed or suspected of having broad-range developmental disorders. Behavior problems treated at this clinic include: self-injury (head-banging, biting, scratching); physical aggression (hitting, scratching, biting, spitting); disruptive behaviors (screaming, repetitive speech); noncompliance (not following directions, unable to stop an activity when told to stop); elopement (leaving the room or home without permission); property destruction; communication deficits; toileting and other self-care deficits; habit disorders (thumb-sucking, trichotillomania) and problems associated with concurrent mood and anxiety disorders.

The clinic also provides intensive, specialized services to pre-school age children with language delays and associated problematic behaviors (i.e., physical aggression, self-injury, property destruction, etc.) to target increasing basic communication skills and to decrease problematic behaviors.



443- 923-9400

http://www.kennedykrieger.org/patient-care/patient-care-programs/outpatient-programs/pediatric-developmental-disorders-clinic




The League for People with Disabilities



The League’s year round Camping & Therapeutic Recreation program provides joyful, life-changing experiences in a safe environment and builds meaningful relationships in the lives of youth and adults. Camping & Therapeutic Recreation is proud to offer summer camp programs, year round camping, assisted travel and community recreation. The League’s Camping & Therapeutic Recreation department serves participants of the Autism Waiver. The Autism Waiver is a Medicaid funded program designed to provide support for individuals diagnosed with Autism. If you have not applied for the Autism Waiver, contact your child’s service coordinator or the Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) by calling 1.866.417.3480 to get step-by-step instructions on how to apply. The League’s Autism Services also works with families to help secure additional forms of funding, such as Low Intensity Support Services (LISS), to fund the cost of services for individuals not yet on the Autism Waiver.
410-323-0500 http://www.leagueforpeople.org/programs-services/autism-services-programs



Lighthouse “Sociabilities” Social Skills Program

Lighthouse, Inc. is a private non-profit youth and family services center located in Catonsville, Maryland. As a member of the Maryland Association of Youth Services Bureaus, Lighthouse provides counseling for children, youth, and their families. The Lighthouse “Sociabilities” Program involves social skills groups designed to help kids have fun playing and interacting with peers.



410-788-5483 http://lighthouse-md.org


Low Intensity Support Services (LISS) Funding

See Maryland Department of Health and Mental Hygiene: Developmental Disabilities Administration




Loyola Clinical Centers – Speech-Language Pathology

The Speech-Language Pathology services at the Loyola Clinical Centers take a step-by-step approach to speech therapy and provide hands-on assessments and treatment for children and specialized services for adults with a range of communication difficulties.

Working with graduate student practitioners and professional clinicians at the Loyola Clinical Centers, you will receive assessments, as well as either one-on-one or group therapy sessions—or both—tailored to your individual speech and language needs. With clearly stated and mapped-out objectives, your practitioner will work with you to progress continually and help you reach your goals.

As part of their approach to speech language therapy, they see the family (parents, siblings, extended family, spouses) as part of the client intervention. Family members are encouraged to participate in therapy sessions and will have opportunities to observe as well as speak with the clinicians.



410-617-1210 http://www.loyola.edu/clinical-centers/services/speech-language.aspx

Maggie’s Light

Maggie’s Light is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization helping Maryland families help their children & young adults with special needs create lives they love – lives filled with friends, new experiences, and opportunities to grow and to be active in their communities. Maggie’s Light is excited to assist families in navigating local and state resources to make this possible. We help families obtain funding for respite services and identify caregivers.



410-527-1401 www.maggieslight.org


MarTar Swim School

MarTar Swim School specializes in providing quality, enriching swimming education that gives equal access for everyone to learn at their own pace and abilities. They specialize in teaching individuals with special needs how to swim by employing a variety of techniques including visual aids and sign language. They are committed to providing excellent instruction and a safe, compassionate learning environment.



(410) 799-8887 http://www.martarswimming.com/index.html


Maryland Coalition for Inclusive Education (MCIE)

The Maryland Coalition for Inclusive Education Inc. (MCIE) is a statewide nonprofit organization dedicated to the inclusion of students with disabilities in their neighborhood schools. Founded in 1988, MCIE provides a variety of services to families and schools. Their mission is to be the catalyst for meaningful and successful participation of all students in their neighborhood schools, through partnerships, advocacy, professional development, and public education.

MCIE provides the following services:


  • Individual Student Planning

  • Training and Technical Assistance

  • School- & System-wide Reform

  • Professional Development Courses

  • Legal Representation

  • Request Information

  • Advocacy

410-859-5400 www.mcie.org


Maryland Department of Health and Mental Hygiene: Developmental Disabilities Administration (DDA)

The DDA provides funding for services for people with developmental disabilities that have been diagnosed before the age of 22. The families of all children with a developmental disability should file a DDA application after the disability is diagnosed. A copy of the IEP, most recent psychological evaluation and educational assessment should be attached to the application. The family should keep a copy for the child’s home file; a copy may also be kept in the child’s school record.

The family should be advised to describe the child’s and the family’s needs as honestly as possible on the DDA application. Families should request assistance from the case manager, guidance counselor, or transition facilitator if they need help completing the application.

After DDA receives the application a DDA caseworker or a service coordinator will meet with the family to determine whether or not a child is eligible for services funded by DDA. The provision of services is contingent upon available funding. A determination of eligibility does not mean that a child or family will automatically receive funding or services.



Why apply to the DDA?

  • Having an application in the DDA system is a sort of insurance policy; if there should be an emergency need for services or a significant change in the child’s or family’s needs or circumstances, the child will already be known to DDA.

  • Even if there are not available funds at the time a child is determined to be DDA eligible, the child will be “on the list” so that when funding becomes available the child or family may have access to it.

  • Even if DDA funding is not available the caseworker or service coordinator can inform the child’s family of other sorts of funding that may be available through other sources (e.g., LISS, respite, camp scholarships, etc.).

  • Families are empowered by the knowledge that there are supports available outside of the school system.

DDA Central Maryland Regional Office: 410-234-8200 http://dda.dhmh.maryland.gov/SitePages/Home.aspx

For Applications and Request forms: http://dda.dhmh.maryland.gov/SitePages/services.aspx
Low Intensity Support Services (LISS) enable a family to provide for the needs of a child or an adult with developmental disabilities living in the home or to support an adult with developmental disabilities living in the community. The LISS program is flexible to meet the needs of people or families. LISS funds are available on a first-come, first-serve basis until all funds are allocated.
Request for LISS is usually accepted beginning on July 1, via US Mail or in person at one of the DDA LISS agencies.*  Be sure to complete the form in its entirety and submit the required documentation including a copy of the social security card, proof of residency, and proof of a developmental disability.  As per regulations, approval of services for eligible individuals is based on a first come first served basis and the availability of funds.  Therefore no LISS request forms will be accepted prior to July 1, and need to be dated July 1, or later.  Do not fax or email any request forms as they will not be processed.
LISS does not cover services or supports that require on-going funding. LISS may include, but are not limited to, supports involving: adaptive equipment, adaptive clothing, assistive technology, camp, community supports, day care / child care, dietary supplements, educational equipment, food, housing related: eviction assistance, utility disconnection, deposits, job coaching, medical services, personal care, recreational programs, therapeutic, self-advocacy and support groups, vehicle modifications.
http://dda.dhmh.maryland.gov/SitePages/liss.aspx


Humanim, Inc.
Telephone: (410)381-0227 Ext.5225
Toll-Free: 1-877-230-4951 
TTY: 711
FAX: (410)381-0782
 http://www.humanim.com

Penn-Mar Human Services
Toll Free: 1-877-282-8202
TTY: 1-877-282-8202
FAX: (410)357-4767
 http://www.penn-mar.org

*LISS AGENCIES FOR CENTRAL MARYLAND


Maryland Disability Law Center

The Maryland Disability Law Center is a non-profit law firm that was selected by Congress to protect and advocate for individuals in Maryland with disabilities using many different methods; including but not limited to, direct representation, technical assistance and community outreach. MDLC works towards advancing the rights of people in Maryland with disabilities. The law center envisions a world where people with disabilities are fully included in the workplace, neighborhoods and all aspects of community life.


To get a free copy of Special Education Rights and Wrongs, call MDLC at 1-800-223-7201.

http://www.mdlclaw.org/



Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE)

The Division of Special Education/Early Intervention Services provides leadership, support and accountability for results to local school systems, public agencies and stakeholders through a seamless, comprehensive system of coordinated services to children and students with disabilities, birth through 21, and their families. MSDE provides access to many publications and resources regarding special education on its website.

http://marylandpublicschools.org/MSDE/divisions/earlyinterv/Special_Ed_Info



Autism Connect provides stakeholders in the state of Maryland with an online resource that will assist them in locating and securing resources for individuals with Autism. The website focuses specifically on research, educational resources, and advocacy organizations available to families in Maryland.

http://www.autismconnectmd.org/



MSDE Website: www.msde.state.md.us

MSDE Directory: http://mdeddirectory.org/



Maryland Technology Assistance Program:

The Maryland Technology Assistance Program (MDTAP) is a program run by the Maryland Department of Disabilities. Their mission is to enhance the lives of all Marylanders with disabilities, older Marylanders, and their families by helping support access to assistive technology (AT) devices and services.



Services:

  • Learn About AT

MDTAP conducts trainings, presentations, and public awareness activities for persons, organizations, or agencies who would like to learn about assistive technology.

  • See & Try AT

MDTAP offers a hands-on device demonstration and device loan program to help individuals see and try assistive technology. These services are free and open to Maryland residents who have a disability or are senior citizens, as well as to family members and caregivers of qualified individuals.

  • Buy, Sell & Recycle AT

MDTAP operates Equipment Link, where people can buy, sell, and recycle used assistive devices. MDTAP also supports the work of the Maryland AT Co-op, a cooperative buying program that can provide many new devices at a discounted price. 

  • Pay for AT

MDTAP helps people pay for AT by managing two low-interest financing programs for the purchase of assistive technology. These programs are open to Maryland residents with disabilities or family members of qualified individuals.

Appointments are required to visit the AT Lab.

1-800-832-4827 (Voice-Toll Free) / 1-866-881-7488 (TTY-Toll Free) http://www.mdod.maryland.gov/MTAP%20Home.aspx


The Parents' Place of Maryland: A Center for Families of Children with Special Needs




Founded in 1991, The Parents’ Place was created by parents of children and youth with disabilities to help other parents and families facing similar challenges. Today, The Parents’ Place serves families of children and young adults from birth to age 22 with all disabilities. Individual assistance is provided over the phone and in-person to families who have questions about their child's needs such as special education and health care access.

Parents’ Place provides:



  • Workshops for parents and professionals take place on an ongoing basis throughout Maryland.

  • Resources such as information packets and fact sheets are available on a variety of relevant topics.

Most Parents' Place services are provided free of charge to Maryland families. The Parents' Place receives funding from a variety of government, foundation, and private sources.


What can I expect when I call?

You will be asked some basic information to direct your call to the appropriate person. The majority of Parents' Place staff is a parent of a child with disabilities who understands what you are experiencing and is ready to help you help your child. The Parents' Place helps a wide variety of families and professionals on local, state, and national levels every day.


(410) 768-9100 http://www.ppmd.org/


Pathfinders for Autism

Pathfinders for Autism was founded by a group of parents of children with autism to support


and develop lifespan services and provide information and resources for families of children with autism.  Pathfinders has an extensive data base of autism resources and providers in MD. Their website contains articles and other helpful information and resources for parents and professionals. They also provide free trainings, workshops and fun events across the state.

Helpline: 443-330-5341 Toll Free: 866-806-8400 http://www.pathfindersforautism.org



Rebounders (Timonium) “I Can Do it Too”

The Rebounders, “I Can Do it Too” program is a sensory/motor/gymnastics program for children of all ages with any minimal to severe physical, mental, emotional, social, language, and/or sensory challenges. The program combines sensory stimulation, gross motor activities, and gymnastics to facilitate learning and growth in all aspects of human functioning.  Furthermore, it offers students the opportunity to be integrated in a safe and fun environment with non-challenged children.

The "I Can Do It Too" Program emphasizes sensory / vestibular stimulation through:


  • Swinging

  • Rolling

  • Jumping and more using Suspension equipment (net, tire, trapeze, helicopter, rings, bolsters)

Class Options:

  • Individual Classes

The teacher works one-on-one with a child individually.  This class is scheduled on an individual basis.

  • Integrational Classes

The child participates in an integration lesson within a regular Rebounders class.

  • Small Groups (with Integration)

The teacher works with a child in a small group of 2-4 children.  The length of class time depends upon the age and level of the children in the group.

410-252-3374 http://www.rebounders.com/special-needs/


Shafer Center

This is an early intervention program for those children on the Autism Spectrum from the ages of 18 months to age eight. The Center’s approach to autism therapy is called the “whole-child” approach. Within the Shafer Center there is a resource center where parents can go to contact other parents, professionals, and find services that meet the needs of their child.



The Resource Center at the Shafer Center for Early Intervention
Speech Services:

  • Available in half-hour or one-hour sessions

  • Taught by a Speech & Language Pathologist who specializes in working with children on the autism spectrum

  • Mastered speech and language professionals work one on one with your child to increase language and communication in a positive, fun, learning environment

Social Groups:

  • Available in half-hour or one-hour sessions, taught by either a Speech & Language Pathologist or Special Educator

  • Our mastered special educator oversees small groups of two to three children enjoying play-based activities meant to foster improved socialization 

  • Every child is assessed prior to joining a group to ensure the best group dynamic and a fun, productive experience for the child

Sibling Social Groups:

  • Available in half-hour or one-hour sessions, taught by either a Speech & Language Pathologist or Special Educator

  • The bonds between siblings are important to a child’s development and the overall wellness of the family unit

  • Our sibling social groups, as an individual sibling group or with a small group of other children and their brothers or sisters, engage children in guided play that brings joy and strength to the sibling relationship

Assessments: Assessments are offered for speech and language, occupational therapy, and cognitive issues.

Applied Behavioral Analysis & Verbal Behavior Program: This program uses one-on-one intensive therapy provided by a qualified therapist and overseen by the Program Director to teach children skill acquisition and generalization so they may carry their knowledge from the classroom into their lives.
410-517-1113 http://www.shafercenter.com/

Social Security Disability: Applying for Disability Benefits on the Basis of Autism:




This website provides information regarding applying for disability benefits for individuals who are on the autism spectrum. There are steps to follow and specific information regarding the explanations that are given under the law. There are comments regarding the information as well as links to other important questions that some people may have regarding the issue of funding agencies and benefits for individuals with autism.



http://www.disabilitysecrets.com/conditions-page-2-53.html

Social Security Administration 800-772-1213 www.ssa.gov


Towson University Speech, Language and Hearing Center

The Speech, Language and Hearing Center offers screening, diagnostic and treatment services to improve communication for children and adults with a variety of concerns. Within their state-of-the-art facility, Towson University students receive hands-on experience seeing clients under the direct guidance of licensed and certified professional staff.

The Speech, Language and Hearing Center provides services to more than 1,400 children and adults each year. Clients with a variety of communication disorders, including stuttering, autism, hearing loss, language delay and stroke survivors, are seen in their clinical programs. The Center is part of the Department of Audiology, Speech-Language Pathology and Deaf Studies. This ensures that current clinical research is continuously integrated into their services.

410-704-3095 http://towsoniwb.com/centers/speech-language-and-hearing-center/


Trellis Services, Inc.

Trellis Services, Inc, headquartered in Hunt Valley, Maryland, provides comprehensive services for children with autism and related communication disorders.


Trellis Services:


  • Therapeutic Integration
    After school, clinic-based programs located in Baltimore, Harford, and Howard counties promote social skills and positive peer interaction in a small group setting.

  • Love 2 Learn Clinic
    This clinic is an early intervention program using the Applied Verbal Behavior Methodology for children 18 months to 5 years at the Trellis School, in Hunt Valley, MD.

  • Social Skills Groups
    Social Skills groups guide and support children in their development of self-awareness, perspective-taking, and empathy towards peers. Trellis teaches appropriate and fluent conversation skills and interactive play. The curriculum is designed to provide the child with the tools needed to interpret "hidden" social cues and understand social conventions. The Social Skills Groups staff members are dedicated to providing services that utilize social thinking concepts and knowledge from the field of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) for children ages 4 – 10 years of age. Small groups of 4 to 5 children are formed based on age and social matching.

  • Outpatient Services
    Speech and Occupational Therapy services are provided at the Hunt Valley clinical location. Some health insurances are accepted.

410-785-3845 http://trellisservices.com/

Rev. 13/14 Page



Download 128.8 Kb.

Share with your friends:




The database is protected by copyright ©ininet.org 2024
send message

    Main page