March  2020 Newsletter  
                                          Developmental Disabilities Month      
                 *Please check to make sure events listed below are still occurring -
                        as many have canceled! Many listed on PIER Calendar!

ForwardHealth Update 2020-12 (“Temporary Changes to Telehealth Policy and Clarifications for Behavioral Health and Targeted Case Management Providers”) has been approved and posted to the Portal.  Please share with others who have an interest in this topic.   This allows coverage for behavioral health services delivered via telehealth, including over the phone, during this public health emergency.       ​https://www.forwardhealth.wi.gov/kw/pdf/2020-12.pdf                                                   

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

         Trainings and Workshops
               Local and Statewide
*******************************​*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!
​------------------------
Sign Language Class - canceled! 
Watch for fall class start up! 
Free, Tuesdays 
*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
​-----------------------
Supporting Families/Friends of Addiction Coming Together (FACT's) - Support group for family and friends of those dealing with substance abuse. - We provide resources & hope! 1st   & 3rd Tuesdays. 7-8pm.  at Aspirus Riverview Hospital - Wis Rapids- Conference rm - in Lower Level.  FREE  715-422-7744  factwr@gmail.com
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Family Voices of Wisconsin, Training sessions are FREE and include a light meal and resource binder for each registered participant. 
 
Trainings are for family members, self-advocates, educators and professionals.
 
For registration information go to familyvoiceswi.org/learn.
 
What's After High School? This training is an overview of the transition to adult life for young adults with disabilities and/or special health care needs. It’s perfect for families with children ages 14-21 and the providers and school staff who work with them. Of course, youth are welcome! We’ll cover: Planning for the future; Your school’s role; Long-term supports; Vocational resources; Moving to adult health care; Supported decision making and guardianship; and, Self-Determination basics.

• Grafton: Tuesday, March 17   5:30—8:00
• Waukesha: Thursday, April 16   5:30—8:00
• Whitewater: Wednesday, April 29   5:30—8:00

Medicaid Made Easy will give you a solid understanding of Medicaid programs for children and how they’re funded. Most importantly, it’s focused on how these programs work for Wisconsin families. We’ll cover: Doorways to Medicaid; Medicaid funded programs; Uses for the ForwardHealth card; and, Next steps with resources.

• Madison: Saturday, March 14   1:00—3:00 (in Spanish)

Did You Know? Now You Know! Learn about all the resources and services for children with disabilities and special health care needs from birth through young adulthood. Topics include private health insurance, Medicaid, long-term supports, how to coordinate services and so much more.

• Pewaukee: Wednesday, April 8   9:30—1:30                                                ---------------------

Canceled 
3/17  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. 3140 Rib Mountain Dr Wausau,
​-------------------------
Canceled 
Adoptive Parent and Guardianship Educational Support Group
3/18  4/22  5/27  6/24   7/26   8/26   9/30   10/28
free, educational support group at our Eau Claire office.
There will be monthly meetings with new discussion topics to talk about each month. You may come to as many or as few events as you would like.
Light snacks and refreshments will be provided.
Contact Allison Kunkel with any questions or concerns at allison@wisapsp.org.
Catholic Charities
318 Fulton St
Eau Claire, WI 54703
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3/20 Tourette Connections Conference  FREE event is designed to expose you to new ideas about managing tics and what will help someone with Tourette Syndrome to thrive. This conference is appropriate for family members, professionals and friends. Radisson Hotel & Conference Center, Green Bay, WI
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/2020-tourette-connections-conference-registration-89507177377
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3-21 Canceled   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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3/25 Understanding the Impact of Trauma on Behavior, by Barbara Kaiser
1-2:30 p.m. CST
How Trauma Affects Children, Families and Early Childhood Educators
Learn more about how trauma affects children and their behaviors, what support strategies you can use, and how you can build your own resilience in order to respond with care and compassion. 
​Trauma in young children is much more pervasive—and much more destructive—than we ever thought.. Register to attend webinar
https://www.earlychildhoodwebinars.com/webinars/understanding-the-impact-of-trauma-on-behavior-by-barbara-kaiser/
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Wisconsin Zero Suicide Training Mental Health America of Wisconsin, with support through a grant from the Division of Care and Treatment Services, is accepting applications for the Wisconsin Zero Suicide Training and learning community. 
Key dates

• March 31 - Completed applications and organizational self-studies due: The deadline to submit these materials is 4 p.m.
• June 18-19,  in Appleton.https://www.preventsuicidewi.org/zero-suicide-training-opportunities

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 4/1 “Did You Know? Now You Know!” explains resources and services for children with disabilities and special health care needs from birth through young adulthood. Learn about health insurance and how to best use your benefits, Medicaid and long-term supports. The training is free.  Dinner and a resource binder will be provided. 
Topics include: Medicaid, Children’s Long-Term Supports, prior authorizations and appealing a Medicaid denial, respite, partnering with your doctor and more. 
Free
5:30 to 7:30 pm
Dinner at 5
McMillian Public Library McMillian - WR 
Register: https://bit.ly/2OuRJnF      or contact the Regional Center for Children and Youth with Special Health Care Needs at 1-866-640-4106 or email specialneedsinfo@co.marathon.wi.us   with any questions. 
If you need assistance with transportation, please call us. 
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4 /1  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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4/2    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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4/2  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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4/4 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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4/4 Parent to Parent of Wisconsin Support Parent Training Connecting with another parent who has a child with a similar disability or special needs can be one of the most helpful resources a parent will have – it can help make their journey a little easier. Trainings prepare you to give support to another parent who is parenting a child with special needs.
Chippewa Falls YMCA,
https://drive.google.com/file/d/0ByZ_f67UtVysNm1Ya1c4eTdmdVV5MzRkekdRd2lHaXkxQnJz/view
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​4/13   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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4/15 Early Childhood Education. No Small Matter!  Their NOW is Our Future!  Documentary to explore the most overlooked, underestimated, and powerful force for good in America today: Early Childhood Education!  Join us for this FILM SCREENING & PANEL DISCUSSION Hosted by United Way’s Early Years Coalition & McMillan Memorial Library.  Through poignant stories and surprising humor, the film lays out the overwhelming evidence for the importance of the first five years of life.
7:30am-9:30am
McMillan Memorial Library, All Purpose Room 490 E Grand Ave, Wisconsin Rapids,
RSVP by April 8th to Jodi: jodi@uwswac.org
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4/16 -17 Moving from Power and Control to Collaboration and Problem Solving Challenges (with Autism, ADHD, PDD-nos, Anxiety, Attention Deficits, Behavioral Issues & more)

​In this two-day intensive training, Dr. Ross Greene will instruct educators and mental health clinicians on how to foster a collaborative partnership between adults and kids in engaging kids in solving the problems that affect their lives. The CPS model is based on the premise that challenging behavior occurs when the expectations being placed on a kid exceed the kid's capacity to respond adaptively.

 Red Lion Paper Valley, Appleton, WI 

https://aepconnections.com/product/wi-specific-location-to-be-determined/
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Rescheduled to: 9/29th & 30th, 2020 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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Sensory and Self-Regulation Training Workshop The training system is beneficial to educators supporting students with autism, emotional behavioral disabilities, or other neurodiverse students. Emphasis will be placed on utilizing Universal Design for Learning, inclusive practices, self-determination and self-advocacy, College and Career Ready (CCR) IEP Five Step Process and CCR IEP Five Beliefs enriched by evidenced-based improvement strategies.
 April 21, CESA 6, Oshkosh, WI
 April 22,  CESA 9, Tomahawk,
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4/24 Final Affairs 2020
 8:30am - 3:00pm
WITC - New Richmond
https://adoray.org/events/45/final-affairs-2020?fbclid=IwAR0LauvmdOy_RWZb3663Qmoe2cHU_c0iCaocxfy-VeUVeqIZUTHfO7qxpAo

The Annual Final Affairs Conference is a day-long educational opportunity to help community members consider options, ask questions and explore issues regarding personal and legal decisions as they age.
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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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5/6 Guardianship &Supported Decision Making
SPASH North Commons – 1201North Point Drive, Stevens Point
5:30 -6 Dinner &Presentation   6to 7 Open House! Visit agencies & services that can help! Childcare available.     https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSe5JfxWSN42cVh7PYzlOiBYhEritFwk_f4q8LfXVokeYeohEg/viewform
    Contact amarty@pointschools.net   715-345-5400
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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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5/20 Positive Solutions for Families
This workshop session is for anyone who has:
1. a responsibility of providing parent education to families of preschoolers and
2. availability to facilitate parent groups.
 
Participants who attend this training will be able to train parents in evidence based practices to promote social emotional development and therefore decrease challenging behavior
 8:30 - 4:00
 HOTEL MARSHFIELD
 $45/PERSON
​https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5b6af3b236099ba883a28b1e/t/5e3308e8830893788b38f7ea/158040292174
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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. 
-------------------------------
8/7 Endless Possibilities Conference: A Closer Look at Invisible Disabilities Topics to include: Supporting Neurodiversity, Compassion Resilience, Mental Health, Section 504, Autism and more.  
Whitewater https://wifacets.org/training/endless-possibilities

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

                      Vote!  
4/7  Spring election
8/11  Primary voting
11/3  General election vote
 
 ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
Also in this column:
         Current Activities
         Down syndrome 
         Catholic Charities Adoption
         Mental Health
         WI FACETS - Webinars
         Family Voices - FACT sheets 
         Grandparent - resources
​         Caregiving 
          
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.
----------------------------
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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3/21 Postphoned  DSAW- Central WDSD Celebration at Greenheck Field House   Activities to celebrate World Down Syndrome Day! We will celebrate alongside our friends at GiGi's Playhouse Wausau at Greenheck Field House    9:30am-12:00pm.There
will be a DJ, bounce houses, and lunch! https://www.dsaw.org/statewide-events/
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3/21  Sibshop program For 5 to 12-year-old brothers and sisters of children with special needs. Sibshops offer brothers and sisters the opportunity to meet other siblings of people with special needs, share common joys and concerns, and learn more about the implications of their siblings’ disability – all in a lively, recreational setting.  9:00 am to noon at the Marshfield Area YMCA. Kari Bluhm, Certified Child Life Specialist at 715-221-8824.
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3/25 Adaptive Ice Skating Event
11-3pm  South Wood County Recreation Center, Wisconsin Rapids - bring your own safety equipment.  Contac Alex - alena@milc0inc.org or 7150344-4210 ext 232
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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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 Children's Festivals

4/18 Canceled - Children’s Festival Marshfield High School!   9-1:30

4/25  WR Children's Festival  10-3pm Lincoln High School, Wisconsin Rapids,​
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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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4/ 26    Bowl 4 Autism - Dales's Weston Lanes - 1:00pm-5:00pm
contact Erin at erin5181@yahoo.com 
=============================
​++++++++++++++++++++
       Wisconsin FACETS Workshops
       & Webinars
​All webinars 12:00—1:00 PM
https://wifacets.org/events 
Sandra: 877-374-0511

318 Utilizing Visual Resumes to
          Increase Employment Outcomes
          Ways to network & collaborate w/
                   employers
           Capture person’s passions, 
                   interest, & desires
            Engage individuals’ interest in
                    job seeking
3/19 Writing the IEP (Part 2)
           Including students’ strengths
           Be an active IEP Member
           Specific & measurable goals
3/25 Challenging Behavior Series
           Understanding & Managing
          Challenging Behaviors in Young
​          Children
=============================
             Catholic Charities Adoption Opportunities for foster and adoptive families!***Registration required |833.WIS.APSP | info@wisapsp.org |    
​                 https://wisapsp.org
Canceled - All in-person events and programming through May 15th, 2020.

Questions? Contact ~
Eau Claire - Anne Rozeboom - anne@wisapsp.org - 608-519-8065
Green Bay - Heather Hansen - heather@wisapsp.org - 920-272-8240
La Crosse - Susan McParker - susan@wisapsp.org - 608-519-8023
Madison - Jessica Wright - jessica@wisapsp.org - 608-692-2910 
Milwaukee - Pattie Godsell - pattie@wisapsp.org - 414-369-7489
Wausau - Chelsey Zommers - chelsey@wisapsp.org - 608-519-8068
 
You may also continue to reach us via phone or text with our 24/7 warm-line at 1-833-WIS-APSP.


++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
       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!

-----------------------------------------------
 Check these out!!!! 
               +++++++++++++++
WI FACETS
​            – www.wifacets.org
Family Engagement Newsletter –
       March: Early Childhood
       April: Autism Spectrum Disorders
       May: Mental Health
       June: ADD/ADHD

​         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

 * Your link to statewide resources https://familyvoiceswi.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/Wisconsin-Resource-Orgs-2020-compress-1.pdf

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

*Navigating Medicaid.  online sessions  
​          familyvoiceswi.org/learn.
 
* What’s After High School? Transition to adult life for youth with disabilities and special health care needs. 
  
* 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.
 
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

​Events are Canceled - please watch for rescheduling! 
​​
Statewide calendar of events! 
Register or for more info go to: https://www.dsaw.org/statewide-events  

Wellness Club: the last Monday of every month from 5:00pm-7:00pm
ible Truth Chapel, 1600 North 1st Avenue Wausau, ​  COST: Free!

Book Club: Join Anytime! All participants will receive a complimentary book, and all meetings will include appetizers!
WHO: Parents, adult siblings, and caregivers of individuals with Down syndrome!
WHERE: Mosinee Brewing Company (401 4th St., Mosinee, WI 54455)
WHEN: Second Tuesday of each month, 5:30-7PM

3/21 Postponed  DSAW- Central WDSD Celebration at Greenheck Field House   Activities to celebrate World Down Syndrome Day! We will celebrate alongside our friends at GiGi's Playhouse Wausau at Greenheck Field House    9:30am-12:00pm.There
will be a DJ, bounce houses, and lunch!

4/10 Behavior Basics: DSAW Webinar with behavior expert Stacy Taylor, MA, B.C.B.A! Participants will learn these behavior basics and some effective strategies they can use to prevent and respond to their child's behavior.
12:00 PM
ttps://www.dsaw.org/events/behaviorwebinar2020
 ===========================
      Grandparent~
  Relative caregivers
Also see: Grandparenting Tab 
​Grandparents & Other Relatives as Parents (GORP) – outreach: quarterly newsletter, warmline (not crisis line but more about finding resources) and community presentations on topics that resonate with relative caregivers.

GORP meets 2nd Saturday
10 to noon. 
hildcare and food is provided –
2 childcare workers – 1 is clinical therapist and other is volunteer. 

​They offer a presenter quarterly and clinical-type support the other months.  Also hosts annual events (caregiver appreciation month and potluck celebration).  The respond to what is going on with members to meet their specific needs – i.e. lots dealing with trauma – offered presentation on play; substance abuse – setting boundaries, etc.  For more information, contact Serena at referrals@therainbowproject.net or (608) 255-7356.

============================
      Caregiving 
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!
  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/
​============================
Please support PIER by:
     *  Shopping Amazon Smiles  https://smile.amazon.com/ch/39-2004868
          
     * Purchasing Kwik Trip Gas cards  
                       Contact  Pam
               ironkids@hotmail.com

       * Purchasing a bag of Coffee from
                       Blu Play
          
        * Sending donation to: 
                PIER, c/o Pam Ironside,
               6211 North Park Road,
               Wisconsin Rapids, WI 54494

        * Join our PIER board

        *Help update and edit website          

​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
******************************
     See below sections on: 
            What's new
            Autism
            Siblings
            Ongoing Activities
​
DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC INSTRUCTION ONLINE FORUM – THIS WEEK!!

Online commenting open from March 2 through March 6, 2020

Parents of children with disabilities and those who care about Wisconsin’s special education will have the opportunity to share their opinions with Wisconsin’s Special Education Council.

The purpose for this forum is to gather input on the unique challenges and successes of special education in Wisconsin. Information gathered will be used by the council in advising the Department of Public Instruction (DPI) on matters affecting the education of Wisconsin’s children and youth with disabilities.

Share your voice! It’s very easy: Click https://tinyurl.com/SPEDcouncilMarch to submit a comment.

Also available in Spanish at https://tinyurl.com/SPEDcouncilMarzo ) 

​​******************************
     What's NEW?
CLTS Supports and Services at a Glance The Wisconsin Department of Health Services has released Children’s Long-Term Support (CLTS) Waiver Program Supports and Services at a Glance, P-02570. This resource for families provides a bird’s-eye-view of supports and services available through the CLTS Waiver Program so they can be aware of their options for the Deciding Together collaborative decision-making process.

Release 20-02 of the Medicaid Eligibility Handbook Published The Wisconsin Department of Health Services has published release 20-02 of the Medicaid Eligibility Handbook. http://www.emhandbooks.wisconsin.gov/meh-ebd/meh.htm ​

 --------------------------------------------
Autism Opportunities           (ASCW) 

​Events are Canceled - please watch for rescheduling! 

Support Group Meetings -6:30 pm St. Mark’s Lutheran Church 600 Stevens Drive Wausau, .  FREE   autismsocietycw@gmail.com

AUsome Tweeners Social Group
11:00 am – 12:30 pm
WOW Family Entertainment Center
1300 North River Drive, Wausau, 

Free event starts at 11 am, laser tag session at 11:20. Appetizers will be served. Private room for attendees.
Suggested ages 8-17.
autismsocietycw@gmail.com

Adults with Autism Support Group Meeting - Biggby Coffee 10:00 am – 11:30 am Biggby Coffee 3140 Rib Mountain Dr Wausau, Wisconsin 54401 A peer support group for adults on the autism spectrum. The group will meet in a private room at the coffee shop, see photos in post. One drink provided for each person attending the meeting. If you have any concerns regarding transportation to and/or from event please contact us. autismsocietycw@gmail.com


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

All Sibling events are postpone or cancel all events through April 3, including Sibshops and adult sibling 3rd Thursday Survival Sessions.


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 
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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)
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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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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
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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​

         ​

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
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 Center http://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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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.