January  2020 Newsletter                                                                         

Please e-mail Pam at ironkids@hotmail.com         With your activities and events!
                                                   
                                                     Empower yourself with information, resources and personal connections!  
                                       Join PIER on Facebook for postings of activities, workshops, resources and networking!  

Please shop Amazon Smiles for PIER!     Support our activities and workshops!  https://smile.amazon.com/ch/39-2004868             

         Trainings and Workshops
*******************************​*Talk to your County Social Worker or Local Regional Center for Children and Youth with Special Health Care Needs if you need help with Scholarships to attend Workshops/ Conferences/ Transportation or Childcare COSTS!!!!

Please check out the Original  or Agenda Calendars for more information & updated listings!
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1/2     Autism 101! An introductory look into Autism. Presented by: Mike Johnson Autism Society of Central Wisconsin  6:30 pm.   St. Mark’s Lutheran Church, 600 Stevens Drive, Wausau   Hwy 51 –  exit 193 Bridge Street. East. Turn left at first set of stoplights (Stevens Drive).  (Please enter through the main doors, go to the right – through the doors leading into the school portion of the building)
715-359-0886   autismsocietycw@gmail.com 
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1/2 Peer to Peer Support Group Meeting—Stevens Point Held first Thursday of the month   6:15–7:45 pm  St. Paul’s Lutheran Church  1919 Wyatt - Stevens Point 
Enter on side by school/parking
Rides are available    Contact: 
Kay • 715-254-1864
NAMI Portage-Wood Counties Support Group Meeting
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1/4 Family Support Group Meeting—Port Edwards  Held first Saturday of the month   9:30–11:00 a.m. United Methodist Church  411 Wisconsin River Drive - Port Edwards   Contact:  Helen • 715-213-6678
NAMI Portage-Wood Counties Support Group Meeting
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1/8  Marshfield Special Needs Parent Group   12:10-1:00  Pizza Hut N. Central Ave.        Bobbi Slone will be there shortly after 12 to host!  For families who have individuals with special needs!
Network to Support your individual with unique needs!  A great time to talk about resources and services for our children, youth and adults!  ~Pam    ironkids@hotmail.com   715-423-7182
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Mental Health – “Lived Experience” Focus Groups If you have experience with drug addiction and you live in Clark or Wood County, which includes Abbottsford, Colby, Marshfield, Neillsville, Wisconsin Rapids and surrounding areas, we would like to hear from you. Your opinion will help us learn how to make community programs to prevent and treat addiction and support recovery better. Anything you share will be kept confidential, which means that no one will know what you said.
1/8       1-2:30pm at Clark County                             Courthouse, Neillsville
1/10   10-11:30am at Three Bridges,
           WI    Rapids
1/15    9-10:30am OR 1:30-3pm with
          additional drop-in time to chat
          ~10:30am – 12:00pm
          Family Health Center in
           Marshfield
Participates will receive $35.00 in Kwik Trip gas cards.   Contact Danielle: luther.danielle@marshfieldclinic.org or 715-387-9180.
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1/13 Peer to Peer Support Group Meeting—Marshfield
(for those living with a mental health condition) 
Held second Monday of the month
6:15–7:45 p.m.
A Better Way Clubhouse
205 S. Cherry Avenue – Marshfield
NAMI Portage-Wood Counties Support Group Meeting
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1/21 Adults with Autism Support Group  6:00 pm - This is a  group meeting for adults with ASD. This will be a safe place for people to come together share their struggles and successes as they navigate life. Coffee and donuts provided. This meeting will be held the third Tuesday of every month in the Ascension at Home- Ministry Home Care conference room. This building is located next to the 2510 Restaurant
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Supporting Neurodiverse Students Professional Learning System
support for serving students with disability related needs in the areas of social and emotional learning including self-regulation, social communication, flexibility, resilience, sensory processing, and executive functioning. Learning series to improve access, engagement and progress for students with IEPs         8:30 – 3:30 

• 1/21-22, CESA 8  Gillett
• 2/4 CESA 5   Portage
• 2/18 CESA 2  Whitewater
•  2/25 CESA 1    Pewaukee
• 4/21  CESA 6    Oshkosh 
•  4/22 CESA 9   Tomahawk 

These trainings include regional training sessions, webinars, online discussion groups, book clubs, website resources, a needs assessment with accompanying toolkit and other professional learning opportunities . These trainings are offered at no cost to parents of students with disabilities.
 
Training Schedule and info:
https://dpi.wi.gov/sites/default/files/imce/sped/pdf/supporting-neurodiverse-training-calendar-2019-20.pdf
 
https://dpi.wi.gov/sites/default/files/imce/sped/falleader-27-SNS-Who-What.pdf
PowerPoint
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1/21 to 3/17 Raising Resilient Children—ACT    Tuesdays 5:30 pm—7:00 pm
Jan. 21, 28; Feb. 4, 11, 18, 25; March 3, 10, 17     Sit back and relax with us for this 9-week series on relevant issues about the joys and trials of parenthood. Topics include child growth and development, communication skills, media, and positive discipline techniques. Call today to register: 715-387-6326
Marshfield Family Resource Center, 725 S. Central Avenue, Marshfield 
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1/25 Day with the Experts: Autism 9:00 a.m. - 12:15 p.m. (Complementary coffee and bagels beginning at 8:30 a.m.) Also live streaming!​  To register, please go to: https://www.wisc.edu/event/experts-autism-2020
Anxiety on the Spectrum
ADHD and Autism Spectrum Disorder
Working Together: Education and
    Support for Young Adults with ASD
    and their Families
Question and answer session with a
         panel of clinicians
 PANEL DISCUSSION — A panel of experts that includes individuals with ASD and family members.
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Sign Language Class - 
Free, Classes start in February!
Tuesdays 2/4,11,18,25    3/3,10,17,24 
*4:30 – 5:00 eat and review basics,
           cultural norms and manners in ASL.
*5:00 – 6:00 Class will direct needs
           *Feel free to come at 4:30 or 5:00,
                    whatever works best for you.
This opportunity is for: Families, Professionals you all our "Community!"
Faith Lutheran Church. 
207 South Cherry Ave. (Marshfield
Questions?  Pam 715-423-7182  ironkids@hotmail.com
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2/3 Vicarious Trauma │ Secondary Trauma │Self Care
9 am – noon
Locations scheduled to date:  Appleton, Ashland, Beaver Dam, Eau Claire, Green Bay, Juneau – Dodge County, Kenosha, La Crosse, Madison, Milwaukee, Oneida Nation, Balsam Lake – Polk County, Red Cliff, Rhinelander, Sparta, Viroqua, Waukesha, Wausau.
              http://children.wi.gov   
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2/3 Vicarious Trauma │ Secondary Trauma │Self Care  9 am – noon
Locations scheduled to date:  Appleton, Ashland, Beaver Dam, Eau Claire, Green Bay, Juneau – Dodge County, Kenosha, La Crosse, Madison, Milwaukee, Oneida Nation, Balsam Lake – Polk County, Red Cliff, Rhinelander, Sparta, Viroqua, Waukesha, Wausau.
              http://children.wi.gov   
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2/4 Social Communication Training
          Workshop  CESA 5, Portage,
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1KanNeFTj2lhB63wFtIuK2mkkdMCNa6d4/view

2/18 Communication Training Workshop: CESA 2, Whitewater, WI
https://events.r20.constantcontact.com/register/eventReg?oeidk=a07egftz3uhcbb06425&oseq=&c=&ch=

2/25   Flexibility and Resilience Training Workshop, Pewaukee, WI
https://events.r20.constantcontact.com/register/eventReg?oeidk=a07egd6d7m6d0af5afd&oseq=&c=&ch=
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2/6&7 Reaching High Expectations: Success for ALL. Technology Rich Solutions for Supporting Inclusive Practices CAST trainers and educators who are implementing UDL, who share the mindset and the design principles that are working in professional learning and classroom environments. (CAST is a nonprofit education research and development organization that works to expand learning opportunities for all individuals through Universal Design for Learning). Advance, amplify, and accelerate UDL in Wisconsin and in the multi-state region. An assistive technology component will be featured. While assistive technology for students with disabilities is decided by an IEP team, many times the technology can be provided as a universal support for any learner.
           Kalahari Resort, WI Dells, WI
https://www.edevents.org/conferences/51/reaching-high-expectations-success-for-all-technol/speakers
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2/6&7 Adolescent Health Symposium Madison, This year, experts in the fields of adolescent health education and wellness will present within three distinct tracks:

• Risk Factors
• Health Promotion and Protective Factors
• Emerging Issues

Keynote speakers include Dr. Ryan McKelley, licensed psychologist and associate chair of the Department of Psychology at the University of Wisconsin–La Crosse; Eric Szatkowski, retired special agent with the Wisconsin Department of Justice/Division of Criminal Investigation; and Scott Todnem, health education teacher and author.
A wide variety of presentations and interactive sessions will be offered over the course of both days with supporting electronic resources for participants.
The conference serves a broad range of stakeholders, including educators, health and human services professionals, and others who work with youth.
 UW–Oshkosh Adolescent Health Symposium web page.
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2/11 Webinar Opportunity for Paraprofessionals Supporting Students with on the Job or Work-based Learning Technology supports that are currently being utilized on worksites to create positive outcomes for youth. These include low and highly technical accommodations that will increase independence on the job and provide consistent documentation between school and the worksite.
​11:45 p.m.- 12:30 p.m
https://www.witig.org/event-details.html?id=4472
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2/13 Love Languages 6:00—7:30 PM
Make an early Valentine’s Day date by attending a session on the 5 Love Languages, presented by Preston and Aimee Tippen. They will focus on each of the 5 ‘languages’ and share practical examples to help your family feel loved. Held at: North Ridge Church, 1021 W McMillan St., Marshfield 715-387-6326 or email MDoll@chw.org  chw.org/communityservices
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2/15 Nurturing Brain Development and Self-Care- Early Childhood Conference
8:00 AM – 4:30 PM  NTC – Wausau $40.00   6.25 Continuing ed hours.  Register before 2/7 Brain Insights: You REALLY Are Making A Difference
Taking Care of You: Body, Mind, Spirit
No Small Matter - Documentary Screening (Optional) Venders
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2/24 & 25   Speech-Language Pathologists (SLPs) ~ strategies to support a wide variety of communication needs. Direct interaction with a variety of vendors, including therapy and educational materials & assistive technology strategies.  Wisconsin Dellshttps://slpinstitute.cesa5.org
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2/27 Infant Massage  10:00—11:30 AM
Spend this session learning how to connect with your baby through stories and massage. After you complete this workshop, you’ll be able to take home techniques to utilize with all children in the home.  Held at Marshfield Medical Learning         Resource Center, 611 St Joseph Ave, 1st Floor, West Building 715-387-6326 or email MDoll@chw.org  chw.org/communityservices
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3/4&5 PROMOTING EARLY CHILDHOOD!  aligns with the DPI’s “Promoting Excellence for All”
Quality early childhood is critical and foundational for all future learning.
https://dpi.wi.gov/sites/default/files/imce/early-childhood/PEC_2020_Save_the_Date.pdf
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3/5 Visions & Decisions ~Health Insurance, Social Justice, Health Equity
Healthwatch Wisconsin's 13th Annual Conference:
9am - 2pm at the Madison Masonic Center
Keynote, legislative panel, awards, lunch, and networking!
Then, an on-demand workshop series that runs March 5-13th.
https://safetyweb.org/healthwatchwi/visions&decisions.html
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3/10 Behavioral Health and ASD/DD 8:30am-12:30pm
Distance participating sites to open at 8:00.Site recruitment will begin shortly and registration will open up in January.
2020 CoP ASD/DD Planning Team Timothy Markle, 608-262-8033tmarkle@wisc.edu
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3/12 Advocacy for Change  Madison Concourse HotelJoin us for a full day of advocacy and skills training for parents, family members and caregivers who have children with disabilities and/or special health care needs.
Learn about the latest policy and budget priorities, including long-term supports, changes to Medicaid and private insurance, special education, mental health and more!
Learn how to - Tell Your Story
                          Connect
                           Visit Your Legislator
With the support of other families!
* Full scholarships for adult family members who have children and youth with disabilities and/or special health care needs.
$50 Partial scholarship for returning parents or family members
$125 Professionals, providers, teachers and community members
*A limited number of scholarships will be available to pay for hotel room and travel expenses.
https://familyvoiceswi.org/advocacy-for-change/
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3-21 Extrava- Gala – A world Down Syndrome Day Party  Milw.  https://secure.qgiv.com/for/d3ae/
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3/24 Disability Advocacy Day connects you with your legislators so you can talk about issues that matter to you. You are the expert in sharing how legislative policies affect people with disabilities in their everyday lives.
     Monona Terrace Community and Convention Center, One John Nolen Drive, Madison,
You must register to participate. No walk-ins allowed
     Registration, agenda and additional information will be available in January.
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4/17 & 18 Growing Stronger Together -Nami  Wisconsin Conference   Osthoff Resort          Breakouts:

• Ask the Expert: Alcohol Use Disorder: Updates on Treatment, Public Health and Stigma
• From Police Crisis to Recovery: Navigating Wisconsin’s Mental Health Labyrinth
• Understanding the Complexities of Eating Disorders and the Importance of a Multidisciplinary Team
• Rethinking Coercion: Legal and Scientific Perspectives on Alternatives to Involuntary Commitment
• Supporting and Enhancing the Role of Family in Mental Illness Recovery: what providers, consumers, and family members need to know

Scholarships are Available! Family members and peers who otherwise would be unable to attend the conference.
 https://secure.qgiv.com/for/namiwisconsin/event/806788/
nami@namiwisconsin.org   https://namiwisconsin.org/nami-wisconsin-events/annual-conference/
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4/30 to 5/2 ~ 31st Annual Wisconsin Autism Conference  Kalahari Resort & Convention Center, Wisconsin Dells, 
http://www.autismgreaterwi.org/event-cal/31st-annual-conference/
​Currently seeking proposals!
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5/ 7-8 Circles of Life Conference 2020
Circles of Life is Wisconsin’s annual conference for families who have children with disabilities and the providers and other professionals who support them.   http://www.circlesoflifeconference.com/
Wilderness Resort, Wisconsin Dells
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​6/16-19th, 2020 International Respite (Short Break) Conference in Madison,  Moving Respite Forward 
This conference will provide a space to advance knowledge and understanding of respite by learning from and with international leaders in the field of respite.
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7/19-24  Youth Leadership Forum 2020: Application Available! Do you know a high school student who is a leader or a budding advocate? Youth Leadership Forum is the perfect place to gain or refine leadership skills! 
 
What will participants get out of the training?

• Leadership Skills
• Friends
• Tips for self-advocacy
• Practice for getting/keeping a job
• FUN!!

Edgewood College, Madison, WI
FREE*
Application: https://wi-bpdd.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/2020-YLFApplication-Printable.docx 
 
Applications are due April 1st, 2
Jenny  Jennifer.neugart@wisconsin.gov or call 608-266-7707. 

             Activities      
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^ http://www.pierwi.info/activities-calendar.html

Remember to check:
        Your local Library's!
        Stevens Point Children’s Museum  
 ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
Special Needs  Dance is the 1st Wednesday of the month 6-8:30 @ the Biron community center on 32nd St. Please let people with special needs know must be 18 or older to attend.
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1/26 Make a Splash for Autism,12 to 8pm  Grand lodge Hotel & Water Park – Rothschild. 
  The ASCW will be picking up the cost of admission for families in the central Wisconsin community who are affected by Autism! A big thank you to Central Wisconsin Autism Support group for their generous donation to help sponsor this event!

*Registration in main lobby from 12:00-3:00 ONLY. (Waterpark passes will be good until close @ 8:00)  No need to pre-register.

A meeting room will be available for a quiet space or sensory overload.

Erin at erin5181@yahoo.com
**Limited to the first 250 people**
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1/27 Get Your Paint On! 9:00—10:30 am There is no better way than to spend a cold winter day  than a paint-your-own-pottery day! Children will have a few options to choose from.  Wearing your painting clothes is advised. Event cost is $6 per person. See you at Firehouse Ceramics! 412 E. 4th St., Marshfield 715-387-6326 or email MDoll@chw.org  chw.org/communityservices
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2/8 Souper Snow Sculpture   Bullseye Golf Club Family-fun, winter themed event that benefits the animals at South Wood County Humane Society. Snow sculpting contest, gourmet soup for sale, food, kids activities, and more!
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2/22 Miss Amazing 2020 ~ opportunities for girls and women with disabilities to build confidence and self-esteem in a supportive environment. Bayport High School, 2710 Lineville Rd, Green Bay 
email wi@missamazing.org 
Website wi.missamazing.org 
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2/29 Men in the Kitchen~ fundraiser for The Family Center
Bull's Eye Country Club
*Food and fun!
*Balloon raffle, other prizes
*Fund-A-Need "auction,"
Yickets -- just $100 per person -
       Be a sponsor (and get free tickets!), be a chef, be our guest.
Contact Debi at 715-421-1559 or email communications@familyctr.org to find out more about cooking for, sponsoring, or being a guest!
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3/19 Calling All Yogi’s!  10:00—11:30 
Kid Yoga includes yoga-themed games, storytelling,  creative movement, and maybe some singing. Join us for a chance to let your child try yoga in a playful and fun environment. No yoga mat is necessary!                   Held at: Everett Roehl Marshfield Public Library,    JP Adler Room, 105 S. Maple Ave. Marshfield
715-387-6326 or email MDoll@chw.org  chw.org/communityservices
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­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­4/16 Music and Movement 10:00—11:30 Join us for a mixed-age music and movement class.   Activities include playing rhythm instruments, having fun with finger plays, and dancing and singing to your       favorite childhood songs. Held at: Everett Roehl      Marshfield Public Library, JP Adler Room, 105 S.  Maple Ave. Marshfield
715-387-6326 or email MDoll@chw.org  chw.org/communityservices
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4/24-25/2020 The Mane Quilt Show- fundraiser! ~ Enter your quilt in the show ~ Shop our vendors ~ Have your quilt appraised ~ Visit the amazing exhibit of 1 inch to 1 foot scale quilts2nd annual show will be held!  www.jeremiahscrossing.org
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       ​Downs Syndrome events 
​https://www.dsaw.org/statewide-events/
​++++++++++++++++++++
             Wisconsin FACETS        
    Trainings/Workshops/Webinars
​All webinars 12:00—1:00 PM
https://wifacets.org/events 
Sandra: 877-374-0511
1/21 Section 504 – What Parents                            to Know
1/22 Mindfulness for Students with
              Disabilities
1/23  Literacy for All (Spanish)
1/29  Supporting Neurodiverse
               Students
2/3  WSEMS-Facilitated IEPs
=============================
         Catholic Charities Adoption Opportunities for foster and adoptive families!***Registration required http://cclse.org/post-adoption/
           
1/20 Winter Fun Open Gym for Adoptive/Guardianship and Kinship Families at Infinite Gymnastics A play date "open gym" style at Infinite Gymnastics in Milwaukee. We will cover the cost of your child (limit of 3/family) to participate! This date is Martin Luther King Day therefore many of the neighboring school districts will have the day off. Please RSVP quickly to ensure your spot(s). Parents/adult caregivers must stay and are responsible for supervision of their child(ren) throughout the open gym time.
12:00-1:30 pm    Infinite Gymnastics, 8989 North 55th Street, Milwaukee
https://wisapsp.org
 
1/11 Snow Day Meet and Greet for Foster/Adoptive/Guardianship Families    11:30 am-1:00 pm
The Milwaukee Public Museum, 880 West Wells Street, Milwaukee

1/24 Coffee and Chat @ "Gingerbread House" located in Muskego.  10-11a.m
Also: 2/28   3/27 (the fourth Friday of each month). The purpose of this event is to gather with other adoptive and foster parents and share a morning hour of relaxed conversation!  *Food and beverages are covered by participants.
 
1/23 Question, Persuade, Refer (QPR) Suicide Prevention Training:
6:30-8:00 pm   Catholic Charities, 318 Fulton Street,   Eau Claire, 

1/28  FOSTERing Connections Family Fun Event   6:00-8:00 pm
High Roller Skating Center of Eau Claire- 3120 Melby Street, 
 
1/30  Eau Claire Area Adult Adoptee Dinner      5:30-7:30 pm  Olive Garden Italian Restaurant, 4920 Golf Road, 
 
3/7 Compassionate (Adoptive) Parenting for the Teen Years: Milwaukee  This workshop will review "life before adoption" for the child and make connections to adolescent behaviors, offer insight on emotional dysregulation and how it relates to attachment, and suggest compassionate parenting strategies. A light continental brunch will be available. Please arrive at 9:45 am to check in and get settled. Our presentation begins at 10:00 am. Please RSVP by March 2nd. This event is for adults only; no children please.
10:00 am-12:00 pm  The Wisconsin Adoption and Permanency Support Milwaukee Office, 4641 W Forest Home Avenue, Greenfield
https://wisapsp.org             
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
       Mental Health 
​Crisis Card - Please access the  PDF you can download:
https://children.wi.gov/Pages/Integrate/Youth-Mental-Health-Crisis-Plan-Card.aspx

​Develop a card for your community - school - agency or work place!

School Mental Health Referral Pathways Guide
https://dpi.wi.gov/news/dpi-connected/school-mental-health-referral-pathways-guide

A tool to help schools develop a process for identifying and connecting students to necessary mental health supports.
 https://www.familyvoiceswi.org/resource-library/
          
 Wisconsin Addiction Recovery 
​ Helpline: https://211wisconsin.communityos.org/addiction-helpline
​
Behavioral Health/Mental Health Online Database: 
www.mch-hotlines.org/wisconsin-first-step

NAMI  calendar for Mental Health, Networking,  AODA, NA and Clubhouse Opportunities and Resources:                                  http://namiportagewoodcounties.org/Events/Calendar.html
 
2-1-1 Your local United Way Website!
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Event title links to information & registration for WI FACETS FREE workshops & webinars:
By phone, Sandra: 877-374-0511
All webinars 12:00—1:00 PM
              (unless otherwise noted) 

1/6  WSEMS-Mediation
          
1/8  IEP 1: Starting the IEP Process:
       Special Education Basics

1/15 Shortened School Day

1/16 IEP 2: Special Education
        Referral Process

1/21 Section 504 – What Parents Need
         to Know 

1/22 Mindfulness for Students with
        Disabilities

1/23  Literacy for All (Spanish)

1/29  Supporting Neurodiverse
         Students

2/3  WSEMS-Facilitated IEPs
 
-----------------------------------------------
 Check these out!!!! 
               +++++++++++++++
WI FACETS
​            – www.wifacets.org
Family Engagement Newsletter –
   ​   January: Transition
      February: Intellectual Disabilities
      March: Early Childhood
      April: Autism Spectrum Disorders

​Family Voices -
http://www.familyvoicesofwisconsin.com 
FACT sheets on everything you need to understand regarding your child, youth or adult with special needs!   Factsheets also in Spanish!!!!

             Each family has a voice ~
      Together, our voices will be heard
 
You can learn to be an advocate for your child and family or spend some time with a training on navigating Medicaid. Our online sessions are all on our website, familyvoiceswi.org/learn.
 
What’s After High School? Learn about the transition to adult life for youth with disabilities and special health care needs. 
 
Medicaid Made Easy Gives you a solid understanding of Medicaid programs for children and how they’re funded. 
 
Did You Know? Now You Know! Explains all the resources and services for children with  disabilities and special health care needs from birth through young adulthood.
 
Coordinating Your Child’s Health Care This training was created to help you partner with your child's  care team.
 
If your child is covered by Wisconsin Medicaid, do you really know all the important benefits that are available? You probably know that your child’s ForwardHealth card (a.k.a. Medicaid insurance card) covers the cost of seeing the doctor, but you may not realize it also covers so many other important services, supports and products you need to keep your child safe and healthy at home! Please go to and learn more about your benefits: https://familyvoiceswi.org/resource-library/explaining-and-exploring-wisconsin-medicaid/
 
Need to know about Eligibility for Wisconsin Medicaid ?  https://familyvoiceswi.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/Winter-2019-DYK-compress.pdf

Family Voices -Trainings
http://www.familyvoicesofwisconsin.com/trainings/afc/ 
      Learn about accessing what you              need for your child and family!

Family Voices newsletter in support of     Self Determination: Children Leading the Life They Want to Lead!
https://familyvoiceswi.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/Fall-2019.pdf
              ----------------------------
Down Syndrome Statewide calendar of events!  https://www.dsaw.org/statewide-events     
===========================
      Grandparent~
relative caregivers. 
 
Check this resource out for webinars that maybe helpful, supportive and informational!
https://www.championclassrooms.org/?utm_source=email&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Coalition%20Connection
 
webinar,
         1/14 Lying as Trauma-Driven Behavior  6 p.m.  $20 fee for the class, can be paid for with NFCSP funds. 
        
Archived Webinars include:
     Navigating the Holidays
    School Challenges
    Relative Caregiving: Navigating the       Change in Roles
    Anger Management for Children and
                    Parents
    Strategies for Building Stronger 
   Relationships with Teens
   Strategies for Challenging Behaviors
   Greif and Loss in Foster Care and
                  Adoption
   The Anxiety Monster
   The Journey of Forgiveness
   Tips for Positive Parenting
    Preparing children for Transition
    Introduction to Relative Care
 
Tips sheets: https://wifostercareandadoption.org/library-assets/?fwp_library_asset_type=tip-shee         
Include:
      Youth Tip Sheet (19)
      Foster Care (18)
      Adoption (8)
      Kinship (4)
      Siblings (4)
      Trauma (4)
      Grief (3)
      Mental Health Therapy (3)
      Post-Adoption Services (3)
      Special needs (3)

Caregiving versus parenting:
https://centerforfamilyinvolvementblog.org/2019/11/22/caregiving-and-parenting-are-not-the-same/
Print and share with your school or circle of family and friends!
============================
        Attention:
  Family Caregivers/Providers 
       *Funding for Respite!  
         *Find a Provider
         * Be a Provider
Respite Care Association of Wisconsin    Please go to:  https://respitecarewi.org/live/our-programs/   for their most current forms and application process. 
   
Respite Care of Wisconsin also has 
resource for:
           Caregivers of Elderly
           Caregivers of Adults
           Caregivers of Children 
                        and 
           Respite Care Worker
           https://respitecarewi.org/
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Please support PIER by:
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               ironkids@hotmail.com

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                       Blu Play
          
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                PIER, c/o Pam Ironside,
               6211 North Park Road,
               Wisconsin Rapids, WI 54494

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​Disclaimer: These activities and information in this document are not sponsored nor endorsed by the agency, organization or school district sharing forward this information. Neither do they assume responsibility for the conduct during or safety of the activities. The above (or forwarding party) shall be held harmless from any cause of action, claim, or petition filed in any court of administrative tribunal arising out of the distribution of these materials including attorney’s fees and judgments or awards. ​      ​

             Featured  Opportunities
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     See below sections on: 
            What's new
            Autism
            Siblings
​
Sign Language Class - 
Free, Classes start in February!
Tuesdays 2/4,11,18,25    3/3,10,17,24 
*4:30 – 5:00 eat and review basics, cultural norms and manners in ASL.
*5:00 – 6:00 Class will direct needs
           *Feel free to come at 4:30 or 5:00, whatever works best for you.
            This opportunity is for: Families, Professionals you all our "Community!"
Faith Lutheran Church. 
207 South Cherry Ave. (Marshfield

Questions?  Pam 715-423-7182  ironkids@hotmail.com
​
Thank you to our sponsors!
     Faith Lutheran Church
     St. John The Baptist Catholic Church
     Marshfield Area Police Association
          & Parents Information and
              Education Resource (PIER)   
​​******************************
     What's NEW?
    Things families are sharing:
 
Caregiving versus parenting:
https://centerforfamilyinvolvementblog.org/2019/11/22/caregiving-and-parenting-are-not-the-same/
Print and share with your school or circle of family and friends!
 
Crisis Card - Please access the  PDF you can download:
https://children.wi.gov/Pages/Integrate/Youth-Mental-Health-Crisis-Plan-Card.aspx

​Develop a card for your community - school - agency or work place!

School Mental Health Referral Pathways Guide
      https://dpi.wi.gov/news/dpi-connected/school-mental-health-referral-pathways-guide

A tool to help schools develop a process for identifying and connecting students to necessary mental health supports.
 
https://www.familyvoiceswi.org/resource-library/
 
The Arc’s Talk About Sexual Violence project has released new training videos and other valuable online resources to give doctors, nurses, and other health care professionals the practical tools they need to have simple, direct, and honest conversations about sexual violence with male patients who have intellectual and developmental disabilities. Access the resources today!      https://thearc.org/
 
Check out the Childcaring Calendar for upcoming Child Development and opportunities to help parents, teachers and community.
*Social & Emotional Development *Healthy & Physical Development *Language Development &
        Communication
*Cognition & General Knowledge *Development Approaches to
         Learning
*Domain Teaching Begins With  
         Observation
*Engaging Teachers; Using Assessment & Observation to Plan for Learning ~ LENA Start
​     • Teach simple ways to increase your child’s language growth
    • Help improve parent-child communication
    • Use a “talk pedometer” to track progress
 
http://www.localendar.com/elsie?JSP=PublishedCalendar&mode=PUBLISH_PUBLIC&search_type=M0&start_date=01/01/20&calendar_id=378194

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Autism Opportunities (ASCW) 

1/ 2, Support Group Meeting - Autism 101 6:30 pm St. Mark’s Lutheran Church 600 Stevens Drive Wausau, Mike Johnson presents Autism 101! FREE opportunity for an introductory look into autism. 

1/11, Tweeners Social Group - Sledding Outing 1:00-4:00 pm 3M Park (Park Boulevard and S 5th Ave Wausau) 1:00-2:30 Middle Grounds (915 1/2 W Thomas St Wausau) 2:30-4:00 Meet at 3M park to sled anytime between 1:00 and 2:30. After sledding we can go warm up with hot chocolate and coffee, and relax with board games at Middle Grounds Teen Coffee Shop and Youth Center. Cost is FREE. Suggested ages 8-16.

1/21  Adults with Autism Support Group Meeting 6:00 pm Ascension at Home- Ministry Home Care 2600 Stewart Ave Suite 160. Support group meeting for adults with ASD. This will be a safe place for people to come together share their struggles and successes as they navigate life. Coffee and donuts provided.  Ascension at Home- Ministry Home Care conference room.

1/26 SPLASH For Autism 12:00-8:00pm Grand Lodge Hotel + Waterpark 805 Creske Ave Rothschild,  ASCW will be picking up the cost of admission for families in the central Wisconsin community who are affected by Autism *Registration in main lobby from 12:00-3:00 ONLY. (Waterpark passes will be good until close @ 8:00pm) A meeting room will be available for a quiet space or sensory overload. For questions, contact Erin at erin5181@yahoo.com No need to pre-register, just show up the day of the event!

*Save the Date! 4/ 26,  16th Annual Bowl 4 Autism - Dales's Weston Lanes - 1:00pm-5:00pm
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Wisconsin Sibs Activities
www.wisconsibs.org or call    
        920-968-1742

1/11  YMCA 9-12  110 E North Water St, Neenah  Lots of activities and fun for sibs at the Y.
 
1/16 Sibling Survival Group Pizza King 801 W Wisconsin Ave, Appleton
Tips on Future Planning & other concerns of the adult siblings.  Information on ongoing series – Don Meyer’s book, The Sibling Survival Guide” discussed.  FREE

2/15 H.U.L.K. Sibshop for boys/dads 9 -12   Chemistry teacher and Sib, Ben Stern, puts us through fun experiments, competitions, and discussions with boys (6 yrs & older) and dads, uncles, grandfathers or other male involved in their lives.
Fox Valley Lutheran High School 5300 N Meade St, Appleton,

2/15 S.P.A. Sibshop for girls/moms  1 pm — 4 pm (girls 6 yrs & older) and moms, aunts, grandmothers or other female involved in their lives.  Fox Valley Lutheran High School 5300 N Meade St, Appleton,
 
3/1-28  Siblings Are My Peeps Photo Contest

3/6  Vegas Madness—Casino Night Fundraiser

 3/7 K.I.T.E. Conference for parents, self-advocates, adult sibs, and professionals -Appleton
 
3/14 NEW Zoo, 1-4 Green Bay 4378 Reforestation Rd, Green Bay
 
 
MAR 28  Kidz Expo  9:00 am—2:00 pm Fox Cities Exhibition Center, Appleton
 
More events and details at www.wisconsibs.org or call    
                   920-968-1742
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          On going Activities!

Pokemon League  5:30pm to 7:30pm  McMillan Memorial Library -Wis Rapids -  All Purpose Room   Pokemon Trading Card Game League - All Ages and Skill Levels Welcome! Don't know how to play the game, but want to? We can teach you. Don't have a deck? Play with one of ours, or bring your cards and we'll teach you how to build one.
call for current info. (715) 422-5136
 
Anime group - 4:00pm to 6:00pm ~ Fine Arts Theater  The McMillan Library Teen Anime Club would like to invite your to join us! Teens interested in joining the Anime Club should call  (715) 422-5136 for current info. 

Super Smash Brothers Ultimate Play Day- Pizza and friendship building.   December Tourney at McMillan Library. 490 E. Grand AVe. Wisconsin Rapids -  All Puporse Room       4-6pm    For - Ages 11 to 18
715-422-5136  ask@mcmillanlibrary.org

Gaming Teen Interest Group?  Are you a gamer? Are you bored and you want to try something new and make some friends?   Contact Mrs. G – Ultimate Tourney or podcasting gaming events.  715-422-5136

Knitting Teen Interest? Contact Mrs. G 715-422-5136 McMillan Memorial Library -Wis Rapids 

Trivia Teen Interest? Contact Mrs. G  715-422-5136 McMillan Memorial Library -Wis Rapids 
                 -----------------
Stevens Point Children's Museum is open 1st Monday of the month for our families who have children with Unique Needs!

1100 Main Street Stevens Point
715-344-2003       5-7pm
         Cwchildrensmuseum.org
Open just for our kids from 5-7 p.m. and free for all members of the family.
(or any of kids/ w special needs)
======================
Adults with Autism Support Group  6:00 pm - This is a  group meeting for adults with ASD. This will be a safe place for people to come together share their struggles and successes as they navigate life. Coffee and donuts provided. This meeting will be held the third Tuesday of every month in the Ascension at Home- Ministry Home Care conference room. This building is located next to the 2510 Restaurant

​Special Needs Dance is the 1st Wednesday of the month 6-8:30 @ the Biron community center on 32nd St. Please let people with special needs know must be 18 or older to attend.

Special Needs Parents & Caregivers Group -Waukesha  Saturdays’ at 4:45pm (Check-in time for kids) 
Need Encouragement? We are all on individual journeys: but there are common steps & junctions along the way. You don’t need to walk alone: Come walk with us.
        Fox River Christian Church. S46W24130 Lawnsdale Road,  Waukesha, Topic:  Sharing Ideas on how to lead a multi-sibling family(take 2🎬)
Special needs care (elevate class) available, for the kids, as well as ‘mainstreaming’ opportunities
This group is co-facilitated by special needs mom (Malisa) and a special needs dad        Rich <rwpollex.ministries@gmail.com>
   =======================​  
Sensory Super Stars  3rd Sunday of each month!  Call to make sure? Join us for a lower sensory experience and special programming created especially for children on the autism spectrum. Free admission for children on the spectrum and their families. 11 am-1 pm, but stay as late as you want! Building for Kids Children’s Museum’s  100 West College Avenue, Appleton https://www.buildingforkids.org/calendar/sensory-superstars/ Autism Therapy Resources at BFK The following resources are always available at the Welcome Desk, not just on Spectrum Saturdays! ·        Decision Boards with Velcro cards featuring BFK exhibit photos. ·        Visual timers. ·        Quiet room: Need a break? We’ll find you a calm, quiet space. Visiting the BFK for the first time? Download the play script to help prepare for the multi-sensory experience. Check out the play script “A Visit to the Building for Kids“.
http://buildforkids.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/Play-Script-2018.pdf

​Autism Society of the Fox Valley   www.autismfoxvalley.org/membership/ ASFV's monthly Monkey Joe's event First Saturday of the month!  Monkey Joe's opens their doors exclusively to families of children with autism from 9:00 until 10:00 am (and you're welcome to stay as long as you like). FREE for members or just $5 for non-member families! Appleton?
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Autism Society of Central Wisconsin brings to you: Wausau

AUsome Rookies Group
(Suggested, kids ages 2-12)

AUsome Tweeners Group
(suggested ages 12-18)

AUsome Veterans Group
 (age18 and up)

Call Mike  715-359-0886
Contact autismsocietycw@gmail.com
========================
Adaptive gymnastics class
YMCA in Stevens Point
Shining Stars Gymnastics For ages 2-7    Fridays I  10:30-11:00
       715-342-2980  ext 324
Cost—$36 for members $72 for non members-- Financial assistance is available! Check with your CLTS waiver manager.  
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​Wisconsin Extreme Dream team- Cheer and Stunt!
          For individuals interested in participating in our Special Needs team, Athletes ages 5.3 through Adult are able to participate in an all star cheer program.  Have fun, learn a new sport and participate in on activity that is exciting and healthy!  Contact Sue:  poeschl@gmail.com   Practice is at:  5216 Heffron Ct. St Point.
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Sensory Storytimes
Select Tuesdays at 10:30a.m. Monona Public Library  608.216.7453
Big Bear Sensory Storytime!
Sensory Storytime is just like regular storytime, but with modifications that make storytime more comfortable children with specific needs -Registration is recommended  Karen Wendt in collaboration with Lindsey Rice, an Early Childhood Special Education Teacher from Winnequah Elementary School. 
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Special Needs Aquatic Program at the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point.  The classes are for young children of all abilities accompanied by a parent or guardian.  Classes also  for infants, toddlers & preschool. 
$40. The 30-minute classes
 www.uwsp.edu/shcp/Pages/SNAP/child.aspx,       call 715-346-2706 or email rsuomi@uwsp.edu.
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Sky Zone's  Sensory Morning -events 2nd & 4th Sunday morning of each month from 9:30-11:30am. Sky Zone Appleton, WI will turn off the music and dial down the distractions for the comfort of their jumpers. The event is held outside of general public hours, when children & adults with special needs and their siblings, family & friends are all welcome to come jump!  (wheelchair lift). cost
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​ZaRonis Macaroni & Pizza Pub,  Oshkosh  First and third Saturday of every month  11:00AM - 2:00PM  Sensory  Friendly- lights dimmed, music way down and servers versed to accommodate children with special needs. Oshkosh
======================== 
Special  Needs Scouting! Call your local Council for a pack near you!
Cub Scout Pack 480
Saint Andrew Lutheran Church in Rib Mountain,
is inviting all families of Youth with Special Needs 
             BOYS & GIRLS grades K-5.
Contact Christine.reynebeau@samoset.org or 715.355.1450​

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         ​

This newsletter is compiled through a variety of list serves including but not  limited to:

Waismen Center Healthy Ready to Work
Children and Youth with Special Health Care Needs (CYSHCN)
Family Voices of Wisconsin
Tony Evers DPI Connection
Family Assistance Center for Education Training and Support 
             (FACETS)  http://www.wifacets.org
 Public Access to Court  Electronic Records (PACER)
 Cooperative Educational Service Agency (CESA)
Wisconsin Statewide Transition Initiative  (WSTI) 
             http://dpi.wi.gov/sped/parent.html
Parents
Board for People with Developmental Disabilities
DAWN - Disability Awareness Wisconsin Network
National Center on Secondary Education and Transition
             http://www.ncset.org/enews/.
Wisconsin Children and Families - WisKids Journal -       
             http://capwiz.com/wccf/mim/signup/.
The Catalyst Centerhttp://hdwg.org/catalyst/.
National Center on Secondary Education and Transition  
                http://www.ncset.org/enews/.

WSPEI and WI FACETS to share statewide information
regarding parent leadership and family involvement.

Parent Leadership Hub:http://wispdg.org/pl/e-news.html
 Just in Time Information (JITI):
                                          http://wispdg.org/pl/res_jit.html
Resources: http://www.wispdg.org/pl/resources.html*
Calendar of Events:  http://wispdg.org/int/pl-cal.html
Multi-Media Workshops, Video and Webcasts: 
                                    http://wispdg.org/pl-multi.html
Product Order Form:  http://wispdg.org/pl/Revised_Parent_Leadership_Hub_Order_Form-9-08.pdf
 The Parent Leadership Hub supports parents/family members, educators and other  community partners to build capacity regarding meaningful family involvement.   The Hub serves three primary purposes:
(1)  To support parents of children with disabilities between birth and 26 years of  age to participate as partners in the professional development activities of each of the other Statewide Initiatives as they design, deliver and support
professional development experiences
(2) To facilitate opportunities for parents/family members to build leadership skills
(3) To provide Content  Focused technical assistance concerning family  involvement
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PIER is an informational site.  It is not a legal services agency and cannot provide legal advice or legal representation.  Any information contained on this site is not intended as legal or medical advice but only as an informational resource.   This web site was created to inform and educate. The content should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice, recommendations, diagnosis or treatment.

You are encouraged to confirm all information with other sources and a physician. If you have health concerns, please call or see a qualified health care provider without delay. . 

We do not endorse any treatments, providers, or product information in this site.    

As with any program - we strongly encourage you to thoroughly check out references.