Training and Education

504 vs IEP – What is the Difference?
You will learn about 504 plans, eligibility and understand the possible supports available under the plan, versus how every child receiving special education services has an Individualized Education Program (IEP). In this workshop participants will learn about the parts of an IEP, receive tips and tools to become more involved in the planning process.

A Parent’s Guide to Special Education (formerly Parent Member)
Participants will increase their knowledge and skills to become effective Parent Members during a CPSE/CSE meeting. Included will be informational will be provided about eligibility for special education services, education planning and goal setting, least restrictive environment and understanding the evaluation and placement process.

ADHD-Strategies for Success and IEP Development
Learn the signs and symptoms of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADD/ ADHD). This class discusses the characteristics of ADD/ ADHD, and the tips and tools to help identify strategies that can be included in a student’s Individualized Education Program (IEP).

All About Autism
In this course participants will learn about Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) and will discuss how and why Autism Spectrum Disorders are diagnosed and by whom. The course will also cover learning styles, recent research and ways to promote success at home, school and in the community.

Celebrating the Whole Child
A workshop for families on meeting the emotional needs of children with learning disabilities.

Sensory Processing Disorder
This workshop explores the different sensory processing disorders and offers parents and caregivers activities, tips and suggestions to help their child manage his/her sensory needs.

Speak- Up! Skills for Effective Advocacy & How to Prepare for Meetings
This workshop is for parents, caregivers, and individuals with disabilities who participate in various meetings with professionals throughout a school year. The class will provide you with tips on how to be prepared and organized when school resumes in the fall. You will learn how to be a powerful advocate (someone who speaks up).

Transition from Committee Preschool Special Education (CPSE) to Committee Special Education (CSE)
Going to Kindergarten is an exciting time for every child and family. In this workshop we will discuss the differences between preschool special education and school age special education.

Understanding the Individualized Education Program (IEP)
Individualized! Are you part of the planning team for your child? Register today to learn how your child’s education program is just for them. Become confident as a partner creating your child’s IEP.

Behavior Intervention Plan (BIP)
Behavior! Now you know the cause of a challenging behavior… What’s next? Join us to find out to find out the process for creating a Behavior Intervention Plan (BIP).

Functional Behavior Assessments (FBA)
Behavior! Are you and your child stuck doing the same thing again and again without a positive change? Join us to learn about the school’s responsibility to find out the cause.

Binder Training: Organizing All Your Stuff!
Where did you put that paper? It’s here somewhere!!! Participants will learn which papers or documents to keep, organizing tips and understand how having the right paper at your fingertips can lead to a successful education plan.

Using Self Directed Services
In this online video workshop individuals’ families and caregivers will learn what OPWDD funded self-directed services are and how they work. Participants develop a basic understanding of creating an initial service plan for the individual with a developmental disability, identify what their responsibilities will be and who they will be working with during this process. Learn what terms like employer and budget authority, and roles like start-up broker, support broker, and more will play in Self-Directed Services.

Finding the Best Graduation Option for Students with Disabilities
This workshop explores graduation options and outlines the updates to New York State regulations. Learn about the different kinds of diplomas, and what you as a parent or caregiver can do to help your young adult graduate.

Healthy Relationships: A Workshop for Parents
Talking with our young and grown children about sexuality and healthy relationships can be a difficult task. This can be even more complicated when our loved ones have a disability. As parents and guardians, we often worry whether talking about it gives permission and whether they can be safe from harm when they are in relationships. This workshop will help you become more comfortable discussing this topic by covering what topics to cover when and the most effective ways to talk about this sensitive topic.

Live, Learn, Work & Play
These four parts of our lives make our days go round. Young adults often need help finding a way to fill their days. Register today to learn how to make sure they have the correct services and supports to reach their goals.

Preparing for Life After High School
Big changes, big adventures, big opportunities ahead!!! Are your “t”’s crossed and your “I”’s dotted? Join this webinar to learn strategies to make sure you are prepared and ready for the next stage of your young adult’s life, ADULTHOOD!

The Basics of Supported Decision Making
Supported Decision-Making (SDM) allows individuals with intellectual/developmental disabilities (I/DD) to make choices about their own lives with support from a team of people they choose. People with I/DD will choose people they know and trust to be part of a support network to help with decision-making. SDM can be an alternative to guardianship and allows the person with the disability to make his or her own decisions. Learn the basic process for SDM and resources available.

The Continuum of Employment Options
We want competitive jobs, a living wage, and to work in the community. Learn more about funding and employment services from The Office for People with Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD).

Please contact The Education and Training Coordinator directly to discuss organization-specific Professional Development for your staff. Parent Network can offer customized workshops and trainings to meet your needs on a wide variety of topics.  Topics we have done in the past: brain health and childhood experiences, sexuality education, school avoidance, effective communication, etc.